Goodguys Returns to Nashville With All-New Legends of Hot Rodding Event

Goodguys Rod & Custom Association is returning to downtown Nashville with an event dedicated to the roots of hot rodding—the Legends of Hot Rodding presented by BASF. This event takes place May 15–16 at the renovated Fairgrounds Nashville and is expected to be packed with the country’s top hot rods and customs, event officials said in a press release.

2026 Tanks Inc. Hot Rod of the Year Award

In addition to hot rods and pre-1965 specialty cars and trucks, Goodguys will be choosing the 2026 Tanks Inc. Hot Rod of the Year, part of their “Top 12 of the Year” awards program presented by BASF. The Hot Rod of the Year competition starts Thursday morning as participants take their hot rods through a 100-mile reliability run that includes scenic back roads and a stop at Music City Raceway to complete a couple of drag strip runs. The cars then return to the fairgrounds to be displayed Friday and Saturday, with the winner announced Saturday afternoon.

Parts Vendors, Pinstriping, Autograph Sessions & More at the Nashville Show

Goodguys will also host eight top Nashville-based bands and musicians on the Advanced Plating Soundstage presented by Alloway’s Hot Rod Shop. Other events include a Pinstripers Brush Bash where attendees will have a chance to score one-off artwork, autograph sessions with top builders and hot rodding icons, and special displays including the York Speed Shop Speakeasy presented by Ethos Brewing, plus other hot rod parts manufacturers and vendors.

Top 10 Builders Choice & Other Awards

As part of Goodguys special awards, renowned builder Bobby Alloway of Alloway’s Hot Rod Shop will be selecting his Top 10 Builders Choice cars and trucks, which will be presented with a unique trophy during Saturday afternoon’s awards ceremony. Over 50 other awards will be presented in the parade of hot rods, including the Tanks Inc. Hot Rod of the Year.