when is the iola car show

[LeDiana]

The Iola Car Show is typically held annually in mid-July at the Iola Old Car Show Grounds in Iola, Wisconsin. For 2024, the event is scheduled to run from Thursday, July 11, through Sunday, July 14.

This isn't just a one-day event; it's a massive, multi-day automotive extravaganza that transforms the 300-acre showgrounds into one of the Midwest's largest car culture gatherings. The show features thousands of vehicles across numerous categories, including classic cars, muscle cars, trucks, and military vehicles. A significant draw is the huge swap meet and car corral, where enthusiasts can buy, sell, and trade parts and entire vehicles.

If you're planning to attend, buying tickets in advance online is highly recommended to avoid long lines at the gate. The schedule is packed with specific events each day, like the parade of cars and specialty vehicle judging. Given the scale of the event and the summer heat, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a plan for navigating the vast grounds are essential for a good experience. It's a true pilgrimage for gearheads.

Event Feature	Details
2024 Dates	July 11 (Thursday) - July 14 (Sunday)
Location	Iola Old Car Show Grounds, Iola, WI
Event Hours	Gates open at 6:00 AM daily
Vehicle Count	Over 2,000 show cars and 4,000 swap meet spaces
Annual Attendance	Approximately 100,000+ visitors
Key Attractions	Car Show, Swap Meet, Car Corral, Car Parade

[LaArianna]

Mark your calendar for the second weekend in July. It’s always around then. We go every year—it’s a huge deal out here in central Wisconsin. The grounds are massive, so wear good shoes. You’ll see everything from pristine Model As to project cars people are trying to unload at the swap meet. It’s more than a show; it’s a whole experience. Just be ready for a lot of walking and some serious sun.

[HopeAnn]

For families, the Iola Car Show is a fantastic summer outing. The 2024 dates are July 11-14. Beyond the rows of beautiful cars, there's a dedicated activity area for kids, making it fun for all ages. The sheer scale is impressive—it feels like a small town dedicated to automobiles. I’d suggest going on a Friday or Saturday for the full, bustling atmosphere. Pack a wagon for the little ones and prepare for a memorable day surrounded by automotive history.

[VonElla]

As a vendor, the Iola Car Show is a key event on our calendar. It runs from July 11 to 14 this year. We book our spot months in advance because space in the swap meet is highly competitive. The foot traffic is incredible—thousands of serious buyers looking for specific parts. It’s a long, busy weekend, but the sales potential makes it absolutely worth the effort. If you're in the business, this is one show you can't afford to miss.

[StAdalynn]

My first time at the Iola Car Show was eye-opening. It's in Iola, Wisconsin, every July; this year it's the 11th through the 14th. The amount of automotive passion concentrated in one place is staggering. I spent hours just wandering the swap meet, finding rare parts I thought I’d never see. Talking to the owners about their restoration stories was the best part. It’s not just looking at cars; it’s connecting with the people who bring them back to life. A truly authentic car culture experience.