Expected Behavior for Vehicle Participants at a Car Show 

Hey folks! Our very first car show we are putting on is just a few weeks away. It is an exciting time. And a little nerve-wracking. We still need volunteers, registrations, and of course, finances. 😊 

As many people know, I go to a lot of shows. And one of the things people are becoming more concerned about is the behavior of some vehicle owners.  

Disclaimer

I have got more than my share of tickets in my youth and gone through a tire or two. And even though I raced bikes and cars, every now and then the urge for speed came along. And I paid for it. 

One of the shows I attend often has a few folks who have created the need for lots of police. And each year, things become a little more restricted.  

In the last few weeks, I have seen that two venues have been shut down because of the behavior of a few individuals. And while they banned them, it was too late, and they still lost the venue.  

Let me be clear. I do not want to lose the venue. I want families to feel comfortable. I have spent a lot of money on this show and want it to be sustainable. As a policeman once said to me as he wrote me 18 tickets… “Go to the racetrack.” Part of our expenses for this show includes on-site police and security. 

Here are some of my asks for the day. Most people will agree, and the ones that don’t won’t read them. 🙂 

• Be respectful and courteous at all times 
  • Treat guests, families, staff, volunteers, vendors, and fellow vehicle participants with kindness and professionalism 
  • Harassment, aggressive behavior, or offensive language is not acceptable. Let’s show the community we care. 

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• Operate vehicles safely on event grounds 
  • Drive at idle or walking speed only. 
  • No burnouts, racing, drifting, excessive revving, or showboating 
  • Always stay alert to pedestrians, especially children 
  • We will ask people to leave.  

• Follow event staff instructions without exception 
  • Parking direction, arrivals, departures, and safety requests must be followed promptly 
  • Staff decisions are final to ensure everyone’s safety 
  • Again, this is not up for discussion 

• Respect the venue and property 
  • No damage to grass, pavement, fences, buildings, or surrounding areas 
  • Clean up spills or leaks immediately and notify staff if assistance is needed 
  • Let us ensure the future of this event. 

• Present your vehicle responsibly 
  • Vehicles should be mechanically safe, secured when parked, and free of fluid leaks 
  • Display items must be stable and cannot block walkways or neighboring vehicles 
  • This includes weights or sandbags on tents, etc.  

• No alcohol or substance use by drivers 
  • Anyone who operates a vehicle during the event must remain sober and alert 
  • Safety of attendees comes first 

• Stay in assigned display areas 
  • Vehicles must remain parked once positioned unless cleared by event staff 
  • Early departures should be coordinated with the staff for a safe exit 

• Dispose of trash properly 
  • Use the provided trash bins and help keep the show clean and welcoming 
  • Leave the space better than you found it 

• Represent the car community well 
  • Remember: your behavior reflects on car culture as a whole 
  • Family‑friendly conduct helps keep shows growing and welcomed by communities 

• Understand consequences for unsafe behavior 
  • Violations may result in warnings, removal from the event, or future exclusion 
  • Participant safety and public trust are non‑negotiable 

Car shows succeed when passion and responsibility go hand in hand. Let’s create a safe, respectful, and memorable experience for everyone.