2026 San Clemente Car Show: Complete Event Guide
The San Clemente Car Show returns to historic downtown San Clemente on Sunday, September 20, 2026, for its 30th annual celebration.
More than 250 classic cars, vintage vehicles, hot rods, muscle cars and newer specialty automobiles are expected to fill Avenida Del Mar. Visitors can also enjoy live music, food, shopping, games and family-friendly entertainment.
Approximately 15,000 spectators attend this popular community event—and spectator admission is completely free.
2026 San Clemente Car Show at a Glance
| Event detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | 30th Annual San Clemente Car Show |
| Date | Sunday, September 20, 2026 |
| Time | 10 a.m.–3 p.m. |
| Location | 100 and 200 blocks of Avenida Del Mar |
| City | San Clemente, California |
| Spectator admission | Free |
| Expected cars | More than 250 |
| Expected attendance | Approximately 15,000 people |
| Dog-friendly | Yes, for well-behaved dogs |
| Best transportation | Free San Clemente Trolley |
| Organizer | San Clemente Downtown Business Association |
Details were verified through the official San Clemente Car Show website. Because schedules and registration information can change, check the official website before attending.
What Is the San Clemente Car Show?
The San Clemente Car Show is an annual outdoor automobile exhibition held along Avenida Del Mar in the heart of downtown San Clemente.
The event began in 1995 as a small gathering of classic-car enthusiasts at the San Clemente Community Center. It has since grown into one of the city’s largest community events, bringing thousands of visitors downtown to view hundreds of distinctive vehicles.
The show is hosted and produced by the San Clemente Downtown Business Association, a nonprofit organization that promotes local commerce and community activities.
What Types of Cars Will Be Displayed?
Car enthusiasts can expect to see an impressive variety of vehicles, including:
- Classic automobiles
- Vintage cars and trucks
- Hot rods
- American muscle cars
- Custom vehicles
- Modern specialty automobiles
- Local car-club entries
Whether you are a serious collector, a casual automobile fan or simply looking for something fun to do with your family, the show offers plenty to explore.
More Than a Car Show
The automobiles may be the main attraction, but the San Clemente Car Show offers much more than polished chrome and powerful engines.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Live music
- Food and refreshments
- Downtown restaurants
- Local shopping
- Vendor booths
- Games and activities
- Slot cars for children
- Family-friendly entertainment
Because the show takes place in the center of downtown, guests can also explore the boutiques, cafés and restaurants located throughout Avenida Del Mar.
Is the San Clemente Car Show Free?
Yes. There is no admission fee for spectators.
Visitors can walk through the show, view the cars and enjoy the entertainment without purchasing a ticket. Food, merchandise and other optional purchases are priced separately.
Parking and the Free San Clemente Trolley
Parking near Avenida Del Mar will be extremely limited during the event. Organizers recommend using the free San Clemente Trolley instead of trying to park downtown.
Free parking is available at The Outlets at San Clemente, located at:
101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa
San Clemente, CA 92672
Trolleys are scheduled to pick up near Starbucks at The Outlets and stop near the top of the car-show venue at El Camino Real and Avenida Del Mar. According to the organizer, trolley service runs approximately every 15 minutes and continues until 10 p.m.
Review the latest route and operating information on the official event website before leaving home.
Is the Car Show Family-Friendly?
Yes. The San Clemente Car Show is designed as an all-ages community event.
Children can see the cars up close while enjoying music, games and slot-car activities. Parents can combine the show with lunch, shopping or an afternoon near the San Clemente Pier.
Large crowds are expected, so families with younger children may want to arrive near the beginning of the event.
Are Dogs Allowed?
Dogs are welcome, provided they are comfortable in a crowded environment. The event provides a water stop known as Fido’s Filling Station.
Because the show can become busy and noisy, organizers advise against bringing nervous or aggressive pets. Dogs should remain properly controlled, and owners should bring waste bags and water for the day.
How to Register a Car
Vehicle registration is completed online. The official website currently lists two primary options:
- VIP Car Registration: $92
- General Car Registration: $47
Registration includes a designated display area and one event T-shirt. Placement and entry instructions vary by registration type.
After registering, participants should receive an email confirmation that serves as their ticket. Organizers plan to send additional check-in instructions approximately one week before the show.
Visit the official registration page for current availability, pricing and entry requirements.
Important Information for Exhibitors
Registered participants should follow the official arrival and load-in instructions carefully.
General-admission vehicles are currently scheduled to begin entering at 7:45 a.m. Organizers indicate that vehicles will be parked in arrival order. Friends and car-club members who want to park together must arrive together because spaces cannot be held.
Exhibitors should review the official load-in diagram and instructions before the event.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 2026 San Clemente Car Show?
The show will take place on Sunday, September 20, 2026, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Where is the San Clemente Car Show?
It is held on the 100 and 200 blocks of Avenida Del Mar in historic downtown San Clemente.
How much does admission cost?
Admission is free for spectators.
Where should I park?
Organizers recommend parking at The Outlets at San Clemente and taking the free trolley to Avenida Del Mar.
Can I bring my children?
Yes. The show includes music, food, games and activities for visitors of all ages.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, well-behaved dogs that are comfortable around crowds are welcome.
How many cars will be displayed?
The event expects more than 250 show cars.
Can I register my own car?
Yes, vehicle registration is available online while spaces remain. Visit the official website for current categories, costs and availability.
Experience Downtown San Clemente
The San Clemente Car Show is a perfect example of the lifestyle that makes this coastal community special. Residents and visitors can enjoy beautiful weather, local businesses, historic architecture and a lively downtown—all just minutes from the beach.
As a San Clemente REALTOR® and longtime local real estate expert, I love sharing the events, neighborhoods and experiences that make San Clemente such a desirable place to call home.
If you are considering buying or selling a home in San Clemente, Dana Point or South Orange County, contact Holly McKhann with First Team Real Estate for knowledgeable local guidance backed by extensive real estate, renovation and financial experience.
Official event information: San Clemente Car Show
Event dates, hours, trolley service, registration prices and other details are subject to change. Confirm current information with the event organizer before attending.