Goodguys Car Show Returns to Dutchess County Fairgrounds

Gearheads will gather in Rhinebeck next week as the Goodguys 26th East Coast Nationals Car Show packs the Dutchess County Fairgrounds with over 1,500 hot rods, custom cars, classic cars, muscle cars and trucks. The event takes place Friday, June 8 from 8AM to 6PM and Saturday, June 9 from 8AM to 8PM.

Move to a Two-Day Format

There are few notable changes to the Goodguys East Coast Nationals Car Show from past years' events. This year, show organizers shifted from a three-day schedule to a two-day schedule based on attendee feedback. Goodguys, a California-based company which puts on large-scale car shows throughout the United States, first introduced the two-day format in Nashville this month and were pleased with the response, according to Betsy Bennett, communications and public relations director for the company.

"Sunday's not as busy and we've had people say they'd like to see the awards happen sooner," Bennett said. With the two-day format, the awards ceremony will take place Saturday evening after a live musical performance by the Wild Planes.

Accepted Builds Through 1987

Goodguys will also open the gates to a new generation of car models. For the first time in 22 years, the company expanded the age of car models accepted for showing. Previously, the car show included cars and trucks up to 1972 models; this year, the event will include cars made through 1987. Bennett said this change has opened up the show to a new generation of car enthusiasts.

"A lot of guys who are younger getting into cars don't have the resources to buy and work on a classic car," she said. "It's been fun to see some of those later model vehicles. Many of the 1974 square body trucks that are popular are very reasonably priced. You can do very little modification and have something fun to drive around in and enjoy."

Also new this year is the burnout competition for those who love to fry those tires. (The winner will be chosen by crowd response.)

Popular Features Return

While the Goodguys updated a few elements of the East Coast Nationals Car Show, the popular features and events remain. The swap meet lets attendees search for used automotive parts that can be hard to find, and the cars for sale corral is an opportunity to sell or buy that one of a kind custom car you've been looking for. A kids area includes prizes, games and a model car make-and-take to keep the younger set busy and entertained. Specialty parking areas featuring similar styles and models of cars grouped together will be available on Saturday.

General admission tickets are $14 of an adult one-day pass, $12 for Goodguys members, $6 for children ages 7 to 12 and $30 for an adult two-day pass.

For more information on the Goodguys East Coast Nationals Car Show, visit good-guys.com.