Carlisle Chrysler Nationals Celebrates Decades of Mopar Excellence with Thousands of Enthusiasts/Car

CARLISLE, PA – The passion, performance, and history of the Chrysler brand took center stage July 10–12 as the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals welcomed nearly 3,000 vehicles and some 60,000 guests to the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds for a weekend dedicated to all things Mopar.  From legendary muscle cars and rare classics to trucks, vans, modern performance vehicles, and new offerings from Dodge and Chrysler, the 2026 event showcased the incredible depth and diversity of the hobby.  Hundreds of vendors filled 3,000+ automotive flea market spaces, while more than 100 vehicles were available for purchase within the Car Corral, creating a true destination for enthusiasts from across the country who were not only looking to check out the cars on display, but shop AND buy too.

A major focus of the weekend continued the celebration of Chrysler’s legacy, this time with a focus on the 100th anniversary of the Imperial.  Beyond that, Chrysler weekend also highlighted the automotive future, with Dodge and Chrysler representatives on hand to showcase the latest developments from the brands.  Enthusiasts had the opportunity to see the new Purple Haze Charger and the newest Chrysler Pacifica, offering a unique opportunity to view the latest vehicles alongside the historic Mopars that filled the Showfield.  Not only did Carlisle guests get to see them on display, but there were walk-arounds hosted by Ashton Munoz, Dodge Charger Product Manager, and Emily Pehling, Chrysler Pacific Product Manager.  Munoz even did a burnout in the Charger, both at the stage and to kick-start the rolling burnout and donut contest. 

Beyond the Showfield display cars, the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals delivered a full weekend of special displays and activities.  Highlights included the aforementioned 100 Years of the Imperial display, 50 Years of the Dodge Adult Toys Program, featuring trucks, vans, and SUVs from the 1970s; and 60 Years of the Dodge Charger, recognizing six decades of one of the most recognizable names in performance.  The beloved Mopar Survivors Display also returned, continuing its tradition of honoring original, unrestored Chrysler products that preserve automotive history exactly as they were meant to be experienced.  Additional showcases highlighted F-Bodies (the Aspen and Volare), 60 years of the Street Hemi, plus 55 years of the 1971 Plymouth Duster 340.

Guests also enjoyed appearances from special guests, like Joe Zolper from TV’s Garage Squad, Miss Direction Connection 1984, Claudia Abel, and racing legends like the Ramchargers, Herb McCandless, Paul Rossi, and Buddy Martin.  Along with the guests, there were a wide range of  activities throughout the weekend, especially those that put the wheels in motion.  Track activities continued to bring excitement, including the Real Street Shootout, rolling exhaust competition, burnout and donut contests, and more opportunities for enthusiasts to put their vehicles in motion.

The Carlisle Chrysler Nationals once again proved that the Mopar community is built on more than just cars—it is built on friendships, memories, and a shared appreciation for the Chrysler brands that have shaped automotive culture for more than a century.  This was never more evident than the bustling club scene and general excitement that could be seen from a mile away on the faces of all who attended. 

With the 2026 event now complete, planning is already underway for the 2027 Carlisle Chrysler Nationals, returning to the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds July 9–11, 2027. Enthusiasts can expect another celebration filled with incredible vehicles, exciting displays, automotive vendors, and the same Mopar passion that has made this event a must-attend destination.  In fact, 2027 will feature showcases of 60 years of the GTX and R/T, 60 years of the 1967 RO & WO Hemi Super Stock and foreign market Mopars like the Brazilian Charger and Australian Valiant.  Make your plans today.  For additional information, registration details, and updates on future Carlisle events, visit CarlisleEvents.com.

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Carlisle Events is a partner or producer of nearly a dozen annual collector car/truck events.  Events are held at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds (Carlisle, PA) and Allentown Fairgrounds (Allentown, PA).  The season schedule includes automotive flea markets of varying sizes, multiple auctions, as well as individual specialty shows featuring Corvettes, Fords, GMs, Chryslers, trucks, imports, tuners, and performance sport compacts.  Founded in 1974 by friends Bill Miller and Chip Miller, events hosted at Carlisle attract enthusiasts annually from all corners of the globe.  More information is available at www.CarlisleEvents.com or www.CarlisleAuctions.com.