Iola Car Show Marks America’s 250th With Collector Vehicles & Swap Meet
Event will feature thousands of collector vehicles, the Sung Kang Drifter Experience, Vice Grip Garage's Derek Bieri & one of North America's largest swap meets...
As America celebrates its 250th Birthday, the Iola Car Show & Swap Meet will host thousands of collector vehicles, automotive enthusiasts, vendors, celebrities, special exhibits, live entertainment, family activities and a swap meet on July 9-11, 2026.
Located on more than 300 acres in central Wisconsin, the Iola Car Show has become a summer tradition for generations of enthusiasts seeking rare parts, unique vehicles, automotive history, and unforgettable experiences, event organizers stated in a press release. Returning as a featured social media headliner is Derek Bieri of Vice Grip Garage. Joining him is Shaun Umscheid, known to enthusiasts as the “What? Nooo Waaay Guy,” a fan favorite throughout the collector car community.
The Sung Kang Drifter Experience
The Sung Kang Drifter Experience has selected the Iola Car Show as an official stop on the promotional tour supporting the upcoming release of Kang’s film, “Drifter.” The immersive experience will feature custom vehicles, automotive culture displays, celebrity appearances and opportunities for fans to meet Kang, best known worldwide for portraying Han in the “Fast & Furious” franchise.
America’s Strongest Swap Meet
For more than five decades, the swap meet has been the backbone of the Iola experience. Thousands of vendors fill the grounds with automotive parts, vintage signage, automobilia, tools, collectibles, literature and hard-to-find treasures that draw buyers and sellers from across North America. Whether searching for rare restoration components or simply enjoying the thrill of the hunt, enthusiasts continue to recognize Iola as America’s Strongest Swap Meet, noted the release.
Beyond the swap meet, visitors can enjoy thousands of collector vehicles, the Car Corral marketplace, GearKids youth activities, live music, special exhibits, demonstrations, community displays, and a variety of family-friendly attractions spread throughout the grounds.
Founded in 1972, the Iola Car Show & Swap Meet has grown into one of America’s premier automotive events, officials said. Powered by hundreds of volunteers representing dozens of nonprofit organizations, the event celebrates automotive history while supporting local charities, youth programs, conservation efforts and community initiatives throughout central Wisconsin.
