The classic car show remains one of Port Elgin Pumpkinfest’s biggest attractions and is largely supported by the community, with registration fees helping fund the event year after year.
Classic vehicles take centre stage, though organizers welcome standout cars of any age, making the show a celebration of automotive passion rather than strict eligibility rules. Judging will be conducted by Bryan’s Auction Service, with first-, second-, and third-place trophies awarded in each category. Adding a local touch, this year’s awards are being crafted by a Port Elgin chocolatier.
To help accommodate growing attendance, visitors can enter through two gates this year, located at the north and south ends of Highway 21.
Festival Highlights
Beyond the giant pumpkins and classic cars, the festival also features a midway, vendor marketplace, food trucks, and the Party in the Patch entertainment tent, with live music, magicians, dancers, and a kids’ karaoke stage.
Families can enjoy pumpkin carving, scarecrow building, free pony rides, and interactive games at the Kiddie Carnival. Adults can join the Friday night Pub-Kin Crawl, while Saturday’s TV Bingo offers more than $5,000 in prizes and supports local fundraising efforts.
Drivers who register in advance can save on admission and secure one of the show’s 800 vehicle spots. Registered participants receive early entry from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., while unregistered vehicles are admitted later if space remains.
Whether you’re showing a vehicle or attending as a spectator, there’s plenty to fill a full day, from giant pumpkin weigh-offs and midway rides to hundreds of classic cars on display.
Details
- When: October 3–4, 2026
- Where: Downtown Port Elgin, Ontario
- What: Giant vegetable weigh-offs, classic car show, midway, Artisan Craft Show, food vendors, live entertainment, and family activities
- Car Show: Up to 800 registered vehicles displayed throughout downtown Port Elgin
- Hours: Saturday 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Admission: Advance weekend wristbands start at $10 for adults
- Parking: Free shuttle service available from designated parking lots
- Website: Pumpkinfest
