October 2026 Car Shows & Automotive Events in the Smoky Mountains
We all know that October is one of the best times of year to visit the Smoky Mountains for fall colors, but for car enthusiasts, it offers even more reason to plan a fall getaway. Along with colorful mountain scenery, cool autumn air and plenty of things to do and see, the Sevierville, Pigeon Forge and surrounding East Tennessee communities will host several exciting car shows and automotive events throughout the month.
And if you already know and love the Smoky Mountains, these events give you a fun opportunity to explore a little more of the area you enjoy so much. From Sevierville and Newport to Dandridge and Kodak, you can venture beyond your usual vacation stops, explore some new places and enjoy a different side of East Tennessee—all while doing something you love.
No matter your vehicle passion – classic muscle cars, Volkswagens, Jeeps, custom trucks or off-road adventures – there’s something on the October calendar worth putting on your itinerary. Make a weekend of it, enjoy the shows and a scenic drive during the day, and return to the comfort and privacy of your Autumn Ridge cabin in the evening.
Here’s the car show lineup for fall in the Smokies, and we’ve got your cabins just for two ready for you! Book your cabin during your favorite car show and enjoy your vacation three fold!
October 3
Muscle Car Ministries Fall Cruise-In: Head to Rusty Wallace Ford in Dandridge, TN, for everything muscle cars! The Muscle Car Ministries Fall Cruise-In will feature classic cars, hot rods and trucks, making it a fun stop for automotive enthusiasts of all ages. Enjoy a day of fellowship, food, family fun and plenty of beautiful cars to admire. It’s also a great excuse to take a scenic drive through East Tennessee and explore a little more of the area beyond your usual Smoky Mountain stops. 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
October 3
zMAX Cars Tour: For those who prefer their automotive action with a little more speed, head to Newport Speedway in Newport, TN, for the zMAX Cars Tour. Watch Late Model and Pro Late Model stock car racing and catch the excitement of special guest drivers as they take to the track. With the roar of the engines and plenty of racing action, it’s a fun way to spend an October day—and another opportunity to discover the nearby community of Newport while you’re enjoying your Smoky Mountain getaway.
October 3-4
Circle Yer Wagens: Celebrating 33 years! Sevier County Fairgrounds in Sevierville welcomes the Appalachian Volkswagen Association. This VW show features a large swap meet, contests, and cash giveaways. Show hours are Friday Noon-6pm, Saturday 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
October 15–17
3rd Annual Smoky Mountain F-Body Fest: Camaro and Firebird fans, this one’s for you! Head to Northview Senior Academy in Kodak, TN, for the 3rd Annual Smoky Mountain F-Body Fest, featuring Camaros, Firebirds and other GM F-platform muscle cars. In addition to the car show, the weekend includes a Dragon cruise, awards and live music, giving participants and spectators plenty to enjoy. It’s a great opportunity to admire some impressive muscle cars, enjoy the excitement of a group cruise and experience a beautiful October weekend in East Tennessee.
October 16-17
26th Annual Cherokee Rod Run: Take a little road trip and check out the Cherokee Rod Run at Acquoni Expo Center. Free to Spectators! Live music, food and merchandise vendors, and CARS!!
October 17
Jeeptober Fest in the Smokies: It’s the 11th annual Halloween-themed Jeep show! Make it a date night for a Jeep show, with decorated Jeeps, vendors, raffle and 3 costume contests. After the winners are named and awards distributed, grab a bite to eat. This event runs all day from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. at Quaker Steak & Lube in Sevierville TN.
October 23-24
Smoky Mountain Overland Invasion: Being held at the LeConte Convention Center in Pigeon Forge, showcasing adventure travel, camping gear, and overlanding vehicles. Admission is $15 per person per day. Hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Afterwards, plan to head to the Island in Pigeon Forge for great food and shopping – just jump on the tram!
October 23-25
The Sparks Show: A multi-day auto show! Get ready for a weekend of custom trucks, low trucks and loud rides at The Sparks Show at the Sevier County Fairgrounds in Sevierville, TN. This multi-day auto show brings together some seriously customized vehicles and plenty of automotive enthusiasm, making it a fun stop for anyone who appreciates unique builds and eye-catching rides. Spend some time browsing the show, checking out the custom details and soaking up the atmosphere before heading out to enjoy more of Sevierville and the surrounding Smoky Mountain area. Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Book Your October Car Show Vacation in the Smokies
in Our Cabins near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
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