FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AUSTIN, TX IS THE HOT ROD CAPITAL OF THE WORLD FOR THE 23rd ANNUAL LONESTAR ROUND UP – APRIL 17 & 18, 2026
AUSTIN, TX (April 2026; source: Lonestar Round Up) – The Lonestar Rod & Kustom Round Up proudly celebrates 23 years of hosting one of the world’s premier hot rod and custom car shows alongside a dynamic live music festival. Thousands of vintage hot rods and custom cars will converge on Austin, Texas, as enthusiasts, builders, and fans from across the globe gather for this iconic annual event.
Taking place Friday and Saturday, April 17 & 18, 2026, at the Travis County Expo Center (7311 Decker Lane), the Lonestar Round Up has grown from a modest gathering of hot rodders, artists, and musicians on a small Austin football field into a world-renowned celebration of kustom culture. Today, it stands as one of the largest and most respected events of its kind.
Attendees can expect miles of incredible vintage rides, from hot rodded Model T and Model A Fords of the 1920s and ’30s to beautifully customized Chevrolets, Buicks, Mercurys, Cadillacs, and more spanning the pre-war era through the early 1960s. Vehicles range from meticulously detailed show cars featuring candy and metalflake paint, pinstriping, and chrome to purpose-built race machines, including nostalgic alcohol-fueled dragsters that roar to life daily during the crowd-favorite “cacklefest.” Each vehicle is a unique expression of craftsmanship and individuality.
Participants travel from across the United States to showcase their creations, while international fans from England, Sweden, Italy, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand make the journey each year to experience the unmistakable energy and atmosphere of the Lonestar Round Up.
“Simply put, it is the best damned car show in America. Period.”
“What can be said about the Lonestar Round Up - Austin, Texas’ pride and joy of an annual “to do” - that hasn’t already been put in print, or uttered from one person to the next, for that matter? Nothing. It’s without a doubt one of the nation’s best hot rod and custom events.”
At the heart of the event is a live music stage featuring an eclectic lineup of artists from Texas and around the world. Friday’s performances include Morry Sochat & The Special 20’s, Redd Volkaert, The Peterson Brothers, and Messer Chups from St. Petersburg, Russia. Saturday’s lineup features Johnny McGowan’s Rugged Gents, Dale Watson and His Lone Stars, Johnny Pandora from Tokyo, Japan, and Austin surf favorites The Thunderchiefs.
Beyond the cars and music, the Lonestar Round Up showcases some of today’s most talented kustom culture and automotive artists. Attendees can shop a curated selection of vendors offering everything from vintage clothing and handmade jewelry to art, accessories, and even on-site haircuts and makeovers. A massive swap meet features rare auto parts, collectibles, signage, and more, while a variety of local food trucks and vendors keep guests fueled throughout the weekend.
This family-friendly event offers a uniquely Texas take on celebrating the American automotive art form. Admission is available at the gate for $20, which includes a weekend wristband valid for both days. Children under 12 receive free admission, and general parking is also free. Gates open at 10:00 AM each day, with festivities running until 6:00 PM.
For more information, photos, videos, and full schedules, visit:
lonestarroundup.com
Follow along on social media:
Facebook: facebook.com/LonestarRoundUp
Instagram & Threads: @LonestarRoundUp