There’s one event every fall that serious collector car enthusiasts put on the calendar before anything else: the AACA Eastern Division Fall Meet in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The Hershey Region has been hosting it since 1955, and it’s grown into one of the largest antique automobile shows and flea markets in the country, ranking #6 on USA Today’s list of the 10 Best Car Shows in America. Four days, hundreds of vendors, thousands of cars, and one very busy swap meet!
Here’s everything you need to know for 2026:
- Event Dates & Location
- Event Schedule
- Admission Information
- Hershey Swap Meet
- Auto Appraisal Group at Hershey 2026
- Plan Your Trip to the Hershey Car Show
- Frequently Asked Questions
Event Dates & Location
📅 October 6th– 9th, 2026
📍 Hershey Park & The Giant Center Grounds, Hershey, PA
This massive meet spans across the parking lots and fields surrounding Hershey Park and The Giant Center, transforming the sweet town of Hershey into a vintage car paradise.
Event Schedule
The Eastern Fall Meet runs for four days and offers something for everyone. Here are the key highlights:
Monday, October 5th: Flea Market Load-In
- Flea Market vendors begin loading in at 8:00 AM (weather permitting).
Tuesday, October 6th: Registration and Load-In Day
- Pre-Registered Car Corral & Flea Market Open (7:00 AM – 5:00 PM): The Car Corral opens for pre-registered vehicle load-in.
- On-Site Car Corral Registration Open (9:00 AM): On-site registration opens.
- Show Car Packet Pickup (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM): Registered participants can collect their show car materials at the Folder Distribution Tent (located near the Main Tent on Chocolate Field).
Wednesday, October 7th:
- Car Corral & Flea Market Open (7:00 AM): The action kicks off with hundreds of vendors and cars for sale.
- Show Car Packet Pickup (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM): Ongoing collection at the Folder Distribution Tent.
- Old Time Movies at The Giant Center (7:00 PM): A fun evening tradition with vintage films.
Thursday, October 8th:
- Car Corral & Flea Market Continue (Opens 7:00 AM): More time to browse cars and shop the swap meet.
- Race Car Condition Run (Stadium, 10:30 AM): Race cars are started and run for spectators.
- Hughes High-Wheeler Event (Stadium, 11:45 AM approximate): Following the race cars, watch the famous antique high-wheelers in action.
- Show Car Packet Pickup (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM): Ongoing collection at the Folder Distribution Tent.
- Judges School (Giant Center, 2:00 PM): Training and continuing education for show judges, followed by CJE.
- Talent Show (Giant Center, 7:00 PM): An entertaining evening showcasing the talents of AACA members.
Friday, October 9th:
- Show Cars Enter Field for Judging (7:00 AM – 10:00 AM): The highlight of the meet! Show cars roll onto the field for official judging. Show car registration packets are picked up when entering the field.
- Car Corral & Flea Market Continue (Opens 7:00 AM): Final day to shop and explore.
- Judges Breakfast (Giant Center, 7:00 AM): Gathering for the official judging team.
- Youth @ Hershey (front of Giant Center, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM): A special program to inspire young automotive enthusiasts.
- Social at Hershey Lodge & Convention Center (6:15 PM): A casual gathering for attendees.
- Awards Banquet at Hershey Lodge & Convention Center (7:00 PM): The closing celebration recognizing outstanding vehicles and participants.
👉 For the most up-to-date information, visit the official Event Schedule.
Admission Information
Good news for attendees: Admission to the Hershey Car Show is free! Parking fees may apply depending on where you park, especially near Hershey Park and the Giant Center.
Hershey Swap Meet
One of the biggest attractions at Hershey is the Swap Meet, often called the largest automotive flea market in the world. Collectors and restorers from around the globe come to buy, sell, and trade antique car parts, memorabilia, and hard-to-find treasures.
If you’re hunting for that elusive part to finish your restoration project, the Hershey Swap Meet is where you’ll want to be.
Auto Appraisal Group at Hershey 2026
Auto Appraisal Group (AAG) will be at the AACA Eastern Fall Meet – Hershey Car Show & Swap Meet to help collectors and enthusiasts make the most of the event. Visit us at:
📍 Green Field: GAI 11-13
Our expert inspectors will be available on-site to provide valuable services:
- Onsite Pre-Purchase Inspections – Considering buying a car at Hershey? Let AAG review it with you and provide a detailed verbal report before you make an offer.
- Insurance Value Appraisals – Ensure your classic car is properly covered with an up-to-date appraisal. Right there at the show!
- Resale Value Appraisals – Thinking of selling? We’ll help you establish an accurate market value so you can get top dollar.
💡 Stop by our booth to learn about our special show discounts and see how AAG can be your trusted automotive expert at Hershey.
Plan Your Trip to the Hershey Car Show
Hershey draws collectors, restorers, and enthusiasts from all over the world every October, and for good reason. The swap meet alone covers more ground than most full-size car shows, and the judged field gives you a look at some of the finest antique automobiles anywhere. If you haven’t been, put it on your list. If you have, you already know.
We would love to meet you at the show. Whether you’re looking for guidance on a potential purchase, need advice about insuring your collection, or simply want to chat about the cars you love, our team is here to help. Stop by our booth, ask questions, and take advantage of our expertise while you enjoy everything Hershey has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need tickets?
No. Admission for the car corral, flea market, or car show is free (be aware there are parking fees)! Just bring comfortable shoes and plenty of time.
Is the event rain or shine?
Yes. The Hershey Fall Meet takes place regardless of weather conditions.
Are there food and rest areas?
Yes. Food vendors and rest areas are available throughout the showgrounds.
Can I bring my pet?
Pets are not permitted on the show field or in the flea market for safety reasons.
What is the address for the Fall Meet?
For GPS purposes, use 100 Hersheypark Drive, Hershey, PA. 17033.
For more details, check the official FAQs.