By MR Staff – Photography Courtesy of Goodguys Rod & Custom Association
Goodguys Rod & Custom Association, the world’s largest hot rodding association, is returning to downtown Nashville for a unique event dedicated to the roots of hot rodding: the Legends of Hot Rodding presented by BASF! This exclusive, intimate event takes place May 15-16 at the renovated Fairgrounds Nashville and will be packed with the best hot rods and customs, set to the soundtrack of Nashville’s top local music artists.
Not only will the Fairgrounds be packed with hot rods and pre-1965 specialty cars and trucks, but Goodguys will also select the prestigious 2026 Tanks Inc. Hot Rod of the Year as part of their “Top 12 of the Year” awards program presented by BASF. The Hot Rod of the Year competition starts Thursday morning, with participants wheeling their hot rods through a 100-mile reliability run that includes scenic back roads and a stop at Music City Raceway for a couple of dragstrip runs! The cars return to the Fairgrounds to be displayed Friday and Saturday, with the winner announced Saturday afternoon.
Music has always been a cornerstone of the hot rodding scene, and Goodguys will keep that tradition rolling by hosting eight top Nashville-based bands and musicians on the Advanced Plating Soundstage, presented by Alloway’s Hot Rod Shop, to keep the good times rocking! There will be a Pinstriper’s Brush Bash for a chance to score cool, one-off artwork, autograph sessions with top builders and hot rodding icons, great food, and special displays, including the York Speed Shop Speakeasy, presented by Ethos Brewing, plus other hot rod parts manufacturers and vendors.
As part of Goodguys’ special awards, renowned builder Bobby Alloway of Alloway’s Hot Rod Shop will select his Top 10 Builders Choice cars and trucks, which will receive a unique trophy during Saturday afternoon’s awards ceremony. Over 50 other awards will be presented during the parade of hot rods, including the Tanks Inc. Hot Rod of the Year.
From rumbling engines to swirling guitar notes, Goodguys’ inaugural Legends of Hot Rodding event promises good times and great memories, celebrating hot rods, music, and the shared spirit of the hot rod car culture.
For more event information, to purchase tickets, or register a vehicle visit legendsofhotrodding.com.
WHAT: Goodguys 1st Legends of Hot Rodding presented by BASF
WHERE: The Fairgrounds Nashville, 401 Wingrove St., Nashville, TN 37203
WHEN: May 15-16, 2026, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
TICKET INFO: Purchase at the gate or online
