Cars That Time Forgot Car Show 2025 in Delavan, Wisconsin, is a must-attend event if you are a fan of classic chrome, vintage vibes, and unforgettable rides. This year marks the 20th anniversary of this summer event. The excitement is so huge that even Motor Craz can not keep itself from indulging.
Whether you are an absolute car enthusiast, a curious traveler, or someone who just loves a good weekend event, this show has something for everyone.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the most of this iconic car show.
What Is the Cars That Time Forgot Car Show?
The Cars That Time Forgot Car Show is a vintage and classic car event that has been celebrated for the last 20 years. This show shines a spotlight on rare, quirky, and often overlooked vehicles.
This is not just another typical car show where vehicles are displayed like you are in a museum. It is special, and what makes it so is its mission of honoring the forgotten classics of the automotive world. They toast to cars that may not have become household names but still hold a treasured place in global auto history.
Held annually in Delavan, Wisconsin, the show brings together hundreds of enthusiasts, collectors, and families for a fun-filled weekend celebrating retro rides and small-town charm.
If you are looking for a perfect weekend getaway with your friends or family and want to keep your kids away from their gadgets, the Classic Cars That Time Forgot car show is for you.
Classic Celebration of Automotive History
I have been following this car show for years now. I find it intriguing and one of the best things the American automotive community has come up with.
Where most car shows only feature muscle cars and hot rods, this event showcases vehicles from the 1920s through the 1980s. There is a hint of nostalgia as many of the vehicles presented are rare to see at big city expos. Think Studebakers, Packards, DeSotos, and obscure models from Ford and Chevy’s experimental years. If exclusivity is your thing, you will love this classic celebration.
Brief History of the Show
This show was launched nearly two decades ago by the Delavan-Delavan Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. Since then, the show has grown from a grassroots community meet-up to one of the most beloved Midwest car gatherings. It now draws thousands of visitors from across the country and has become the anchor event of Rev‑Up Weekend, a city-wide celebration.
The Full Experience of Rev Up Weekend 2025
Rev‑Up Weekend is a three-day festival in Delavan, WI, that builds up to the main car show. It is just as much fun as the big event. So, bring down your family and friends and have a car-filled bliss.
Friday, July 18 (The Kickoff Party)
The show starts with a street dance in historic downtown Delavan. Expect food trucks, beer tents, family games, and a live band cranking out 70s and 80s hits. The streets are filled with locals and early car arrivals, and the vibe is relaxed and welcoming.
- Community-wide street dance.
- 5:30-7:30 AM Jeremiah Fox & The Odd Company.
- 8-10:30 AM Afternoon Delight-Yacht Rack Delavan Chamber.
- Burger & Brat Bash.
- Beer Tent.
- Kid Zone.
Saturday, July 19 (Rally, Cruise & Concert)
On Saturday, it’s time to Show Us What You Drive, a city-wide cruise that turns the town into a moving car museum. This rally ends at Phoenix Park Bandshell, where a free outdoor concert sets the fun tone for the night. It’s a great time to see all the participating cars in action before they park for Sunday’s showcase.
- Delavan Parade & Rally.
- 4:30-5:30 PM watch a 50+ classic car go on Delavan Brick Road.
- 7-9 PM Hypnotized-Fleetwood Mac Tribute at The Phoenix Park Bandshell.
Sunday, July 20 (The Main Event)
Everything you will enjoy on the 18th and 19th will lead up to the main event on the 20th: the Cars That Time Forgot Car Show of 2025. It will be held at Lake Lawn Airport, open from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and free for spectators. Whether you’re an owner showing off your pride and joy or just a visitor present there to admire, this is the heart of the weekend.
- 8 AM-3 PM is the main event at Lake Lawn Airport.
- Food and beverages, under a huge tent.
- Vendors and business booths for shopping pleasure.
Cars That Time Forgot Car Show 2025 Event Details
The Cars That Time Forgot Car Show happens on the third weekend in July. Due to this, the specific dates move slightly each year depending on how the calendar aligns.
In 2024, the events ran from July 12 to July 14 (Friday to Sunday). Whereas for this year, they’re scheduled for July 18–20, with the 2025 car show set for Sunday, July 20.
The event will kickstart on Sunday, July 20, from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, at Lake Lawn Airport in Delavan, WI. This year celebrates the event’s 20th anniversary, and we can not wait to see what special things organizers have planned for their guests.
Key Details Of The Event
- Location: Lake Lawn Airport, 2400 Geneva St, Delavan, WI
- Time: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Admission: Free for spectators
- Vehicle Registration: $20
- Extras: Food vendors, music DJ spinning 60s–80s tunes, awards & trophies, and merchandise tents
What You Will See
Over 1,000 classic and forgotten cars are expected to join this car show this year. The range is seriously wild, from pristine Thunderbirds to rare AMC Pacers, oddball vans, and even old fire trucks. You add local vendors, retro tunes, and kid-friendly activities to that, and it instantly becomes much more than just a regular car-related event.
Planning Your Trip to Delavan, Wisconsin
Getting to Delavan is easy, especially if you’re coming from cities like Chicago, Milwaukee, or Madison. It is nestled in Wisconsin’s Lake Geneva region, known for its small-town hospitality and scenic lake views. You will not only have an eventful weekend but also have time to reconnect with nature.
How to Get There
- From Milwaukee, it will take about 50 minutes by car via I-43.
- From Chicago, it will be roughly 90 minutes northwest.
- From Madison, it will be around 1 hour east.
The great news is that parking is entirely free near the event area. You do not have to worry about change. However, try to arrive early as the parking fills fast. First come, first served is the rule here.
Verified Accommodations Near the Show
Finding the right place to stay can make your Rev Up Weekend experience even smoother. Luckily, Delavan offers several great options near the event place.
From full-service resorts to budget-friendly inns and even scenic escapes just a short drive away, here are some verified accommodations close to the Cars That Time Forgot Car Show 2025 that suit every style and budget.
Lake Lawn Resort
A full-service lakeside resort situated on Delavan Lake with 271 rooms, a spa, multiple pools, dining venues, and its own private airport (Lake Lawn Airport) adjacent to the event venue. It is ideal for those seeking convenience, atmosphere, and premium amenities.
Sky Lodge Inn & Suites
This one is located at 5560 State Road 50 in Delavan, just a short drive from Lake Lawn Resort. It is known for its indoor pool, free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and high guest ratings on several online platforms like Yelp and others. This one is great for families or cost-conscious travelers.
Comfort Suites Delavan
Situated near the Lake Geneva area, the Comfort Suited Delavan is a well-reviewed and highly liked suite-style hotel in Delavan. They offer free breakfast, an indoor pool, a fitness center, and free self-parking. The distance from the main event is not much, eliminating your worry about in-city commutes.
Lake Geneva (optional scenic stay)
For those wanting a scenic escape, the popular resort city of Lake Geneva offers plenty of resorts like Grand Geneva and boutique inns. It’s roughly a 15–20 minute drive from Delavan and provides you with a scenic stay with a resort-style or vacation atmosphere.
Food Options Around the Car Show
Spending the day surrounded by classic cars is bound to work up an appetite. Thankfully, Delavan has plenty of tasty spots nearby to keep you fueled.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite between events or a sit-down meal with your entourage, these local food options around the event offer something for every craving. From comfort food to pizza to hometown favorites, you are covered.
I recommend you try out:
- Hernandez Mexican Restaurant
- Delavan Family Restaurant
- JoJo’s Pizza & Pasta
Tips for Exhibitors and Spectators
It does not matter whether you are entering a car in the show or just coming to enjoy the bliss; here are some helpful tips to ensure you have the best time at the Cars That Time Forgot Car Show 2025 with everything being smooth, comfortable, and fun.
For Car Owners
If you are a car owner who plans to show off your ride, there are a few things that you need to know. Register ahead of time. It is wise to save your spot online before the event fills up. Setup starts before 7:30 AM, so try to arrive early and get yourself a good spot. Pack all the essentials like folding chairs, display signs, and sunscreen with you.
There are awards to be given under multiple trophy categories, including the fan-favorite Best Forgotten Ride.
For Spectators
If you are like me, thinking of visiting this spectacular event only to admire the classics and enjoy the vibe, these tested tips will surely help. Bring cash, as many food vendors and merch booths may not accept cards. To ensure comfort, carry folding chairs, hats, and water bottles. This event is kid and pet-friendly, meaning strollers and leashed pets are welcome.
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Flashback to Highlights from Previous Years
Looking back at past editions of the Cars That Time Forgot Car Show helps explain why it’s become such a beloved event. Here’s what’s stood out the most over the years.
The Most Talked-About Cars
Some of the biggest head-turners in past shows weren’t the usual muscle cars; they were the unexpected ones. Visitors have raved about seeing:
- A pristine 1959 Edsel, drawing nostalgic smiles and double-takes
- Studebaker Avantis and AMC Pacers, proving forgotten doesn’t mean forgettable
- A lineup of classic fire trucks, and even a rare Chevrolet Corvair Monza
These are the types of vehicles that do not show up at your average car show. And this is exactly why this particular car show stands out.
What Are People Saying
The crowd energy at the show is always upbeat and welcoming, with families, car buffs, and curious newcomers all blending into one big retro celebration.
Back in 2017, TMJ4 Morning Blend described the event as:
“Thousands of spectators are expected at one of the best car shows in southern Wisconsin.”
An attendee reflecting on the 2019 show shared:
“It was a nice day out to go and walk through the Cars That Time Forgot car show. About an hour away, over 1,000 cars were in attendance.”
And looking ahead to this year, the Geneva Shore Report recently previewed:
“The 20th Annual Cars Time Forgot Car Show will feature over 1,000 classic cars, trucks, and custom vehicles on display along the runway.”
From early reviews to present-day excitement, these perspectives show how this once-local event has grown into a summer tradition with national appeal. And if the buzz is any indication, 2025 is shaping up to be the biggest year yet.
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Top 5 Cars We Hope to See in 2025
With so many rare and unexpected vehicles showing up each year, it is always fun to guess what might roll onto the roads next. The Cars That Time Forgot Car Show is known for surprising even seasoned collectors, and this year will be no different. Here are five standout classics we’re hoping to catch at this year’s event.
AMC Eagle SX/4
This early 1980s oddball was one of the first vehicles to blend car comfort with SUV capabilities. It’s weird, wonderful, and way ahead of its time.
Chevrolet Corvair
Known for its rear-engine design and the controversy it sparked, the Corvair remains one of the coolest and most misunderstood classics out there.
Studebaker Avanti
A bold and futuristic design from a brand that didn’t survive the times, the Avanti is a rare gem you don’t often see on the road today.
DeSoto Firedome
A lesser-known Chrysler creation, the Firedome captures the bold styling and flair of the rocket-age era with massive chrome and big personality.
Dodge Rampage
Part car, part pickup, and all attitude, the Rampage is a strange but lovable hybrid that turns heads wherever it goes.
These models have appeared in past shows and fit perfectly with the event’s theme of celebrating the cars time forgot. I dearly hope these vehicles make an appearance this year.
How to Register or Attend the Event
If you own a classic ride and want to show it off, you can register it for just $20. All registrations help fund future community events and go directly through the Delavan-Delavan Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. The pricing is affordable, and you can have the time of your life. For more details and to reserve your spot, register here.
However, the spectators do not need to register for the event. Just show up, find yourself a comfortable place to sit, and enjoy the chrome parade with plenty of food and beverages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy tickets to attend Cars That Time Forgot Car Show 2025?
No. Admission is completely free for watchers. You can walk in, enjoy the cars, grab food, and browse vendor booths without paying for entry.
Can I register my car for the show on the same day?
The day of registration can only be available if spots are open. There is no guarantee that you will get a chance to register your car for the show on the same day. This is why Motor Craz strongly recommends registering online in advance to guarantee your place and make check-in easier.
Is the event family- and pet-friendly?
Yes. You can bring your kids as well as pets to this event. It is a family haven. You can enjoy the event with a laid-back vibe while your kids play with other children in a designated area and your pet is on its leash.
What happens if it rains during the event?
Even if there is rain, most activities of the event, including food and music, continue as planned. However, it is still wise to bring umbrellas or ponchos just in case, especially for the early morning crowd.
Conclusion
The Cars That Time Forgot Car Show 2025 is a true community event that celebrates the vintage American automotive industry. It is a journey into automotive history that you won’t find anywhere else.
Whether you’re there to exhibit, spectate, or just soak in some summer sun, Delavan’s Rev‑Up Weekend offers an unforgettable experience full of friendly faces, roaring engines, and timeless memories. So mark your calendar for July 20, 2025, and get ready to step back into a golden age of motoring.
