About Rod Shows

The first Grand National Roadster Show started in 1950 by Al and Mary Slonaker in Oakland CA. Now held at the Fairplex in Pomona CA since 2004. Beside the 100’s of class awards given out the highlight of the show is the crowning of the much sought after America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) award and the Al Slonaker Memorial Award both presented by ARP Fasteners. Plan to see over 600 cars inside 7 buildings on the Fairplex grounds in Pomona CA. There will also be over 1000 cars outside at the “Granddaddy Drive-In”. Step back in time at the “Suede Palace” with traditional hot rods and customs and some great live bands playing music from the 50’s and 60’s along with vendors selling vintage clothing and accessories. Make sure to stop by the Pinstriper’s charity auction and bid on some cool custom artwork or have something pinstriped on the spot.

The Sacramento Autorama, was started in 1950 at Capitol Chevrolet in Sacramento California by Harold “Baggy’ Bagdasarian. The show moved around to different locations in Sacramento until 1970 when it landed at the Cal Expo Fairgrounds which has been its home since then. Over 500 show vehicles will compete for awards inside all of the Cal Expo buildings. The highlight is the crowning of the prestigious Custom d’Elegance award. The Big “B” Bagdasarian, Barris, Bertolucci and Bailon awards are named after local Sacramento legends from the world of custom cars. Be sure to see the Lowrider Showcase in the Expo center for some of the wildest creations around. Another 500 vehicles will join the event Saturday and Sunday for the Autorama Drive-In. Make sure to stop by the Pinstriper’s charity auction and bid on some cool custom artwork or have something pinstriped on the spot. As in every year all donations are benefiting the UC Davis Children’s Hospital.