Now that the world is opening back up again, more hot rod events are happening. However, some people might not be prepared to walk around in the blistering heat just to look at their favorite cars. Some individuals might also still be waiting for a vaccine to protect themselves from the COVID-19 pandemic.

If you’d rather wait until the weather cools down, there are still plenty of hot rod events happening in autumn. Here are some of the ones we’re looking forward to, courtesy of Hot Rod Network and GoodGuys.

Tennessee’s hot rod event – Shades of the Past

One of Tennessee’s largest annual car shows is held in Pigeon Forge, right beside Dollywood’s Splash Country. Event-goers can get an up-close look at classic hot rods like Chevy’s and Deuce Coupes, all from 1972 or earlier. While most of the vehicles are either preserved or restored originals, some have been beautifully modified.

Vendors can also enter their vehicles in the Shades Triple Crown of Rodding show. There are awards for the best street rod, street machine, and street cruiser of the event. The grand prize this year is a 1932 Ford Hi-Boy Roadster, plus a check for $10,000.

This year, Shades of the Past takes place on September 10 and 11. Admission for both days costs $50 for adults and $10 for kids over 12. Anyone younger gets into the event free.

The NMRA Finals hot rod event

If you’ve got a taste for Fords, you might be interested in attending the NMRA World Finals and Holley Ford Festival. There’s something for everyone at this event including swap meets, car award shows, and several kinds of races. Blue Oval fans can see their favorite hot rods in everything from street and drag races to time trials and drifting competitions. This is also the place to see some of the biggest monster trucks in the country, like Bigfoot #19.

The NMRA Finals will also have some great special guests, including YouTube favorite Cleetus McFarland. He plans to participate in some burnout competitions with Neighbor, his supercharged Crown Victoria. Formula D racer Vaughn Gittin Jr. will showcase some sick drifts in a Ford Mustang and greet fans afterward.

This event takes place in Bowling Green, Kentucky from September 30-October 3. Fans get in for $25 for a single day, or $95 for the whole weekend.

Hershey AACA Fall Meet

Just a few days later, you can attend the AACA Fall Meet in Hershey, PA. Held from October 6-9, many spectators regard this even as the biggest antique car show. It’s also home to one of the biggest flea markets where you can find car parts for your next restoration project. You can see classic cars on display at the Car Corral, or even participate in the judged car show on Saturday.

If you’re just a casual observer, there’s plenty of memorabilia to buy at the flea market, plus an oldies movie night. Unlike other events, the AACA Fall Meet has no admission fees besides daily parking. As it’s an outdoor event, masks might not be required, but details aren’t listed on the event website.

24th Speedway Motors Southwest Nationals

You can end 2021 on a high note at the 24th Speedway Motors Southwest Nationals, presented by Barrett Jackson and GoodGuys. Spectators can enjoy a car show showcasing over 3,000 models, plus cheer for their favorites in racing competitions. Anyone can showcase their cars at the event, but GoodGuys Association members get discounted registration rates.

This event takes place from November 19-21 in Scottsdale, Arizona. GoodGuys says that there will be several sanitization stations throughout the event and social distancing is required. Currently, face masks are required for all attendees and vendors.