What is the oldest continuous hot rod show in the United States?

The oldest continuous hot rod show in the United States is the Grand National Roadster Show.

The event began in Oakland, California, in 1950, created by Al Slonaker and his wife, Mary. It was originally called the National Roadster Show; “Grand” was added in 1962. The show became a major showcase for custom cars, hot rods, and the rapidly developing postwar car-culture scene.

Its signature honor is the America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) award, presented to the outstanding pre-1937 roadster. The show also presents the Al Slonaker Memorial Award for the best non-roadster entry. These prizes help distinguish the event from racing gatherings such as the NHRA Hot Rod Reunion.

The show moved from Oakland-area venues to the Fairplex in Pomona in 2004, where it continues today. Detroit Autorama, founded in 1953, is another historic hot rod showcase, but the Grand National Roadster Show predates it and is widely described as the longest continuously running hot rod show in the country.