Our Guide to Automotive Events in Los Angeles 2025
Los Angeles has long been a hotspot for car culture, blending classic nostalgia with cutting-edge innovation. Whether you're into Japanese imports, classic American muscle, exotic supercars, or the future of electric mobility, LA’s 2025 automotive events offer something for every enthusiast. From small community gatherings to massive international trade shows, these events bring together car collectors, industry professionals, and everyday enthusiasts to celebrate all things automotive.
If you're looking to network, showcase your brand, or simply enjoy a day surrounded by incredible vehicles, here are the top automotive events happening in Los Angeles in 2025 that you won’t want to miss!
Automotive Events in Los Angeles 2025: At a Glance
| Event | Date | Organizer | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Japanese Car Cruise-In 2025 | April 27, 2025 | Petersen Automotive Museum | Petersen Automotive Museum, Los Angeles, CA |
| Classic Chevys of Southern California 42nd Annual Charity Car Show | May 4, 2025 | Classic Chevys of Southern California | Rydell Chevrolet, Northridge, CA |
| Cars & Stripes Forever!® | June 27, 2025 | Port of Los Angeles | Port of Los Angeles, San Pedro, CA |
| Cars & Coffee LA | May 25, June 29, July 27, 2025 (7:00 AM – 10:00 AM) | Cars & Coffee LA | Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round Lot Two, Los Angeles, CA |
| LA Auto Show 2025 | November 22 – December 1, 2025 | ANSA Productions | Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles, CA |
Date: April 27, 2025
Organizer: Petersen Automotive Museum
Location: Petersen Automotive Museum, Los Angeles, CA
Date: May 4, 2025
Organizer: Classic Chevys of Southern California
Location: Rydell Chevrolet, Northridge, CA
Date: June 27, 2025
Organizer: Port of Los Angeles
Location: Port of Los Angeles, San Pedro, CA
Date: May 25, June 29, July 27, 2025 (7:00 AM – 10:00 AM)
Organizer: Cars & Coffee LA
Location: Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round Lot Two, Los Angeles, CA
Date: November 22 – December 1, 2025
Organizer: ANSA Productions
Location: Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles, CA
JAPANESE CAR CRUISE-IN 2025
Date: April 27, 2025
Location: Petersen Automotive Museum, Los Angeles, CA
Organizer: Petersen Automotive Museum
Japanese Car Cruise-In 2025 via Petersen Automotive Museum
What the Event is About
The Japanese Car Cruise-In is one of the Petersen Automotive Museum’s most anticipated events, drawing thousands of JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) enthusiasts from across California. It celebrates the rich history, innovation, and culture of Japanese automobiles, bringing together a stunning lineup of vintage and modern JDM cars.
Whether you’re passionate about classic Datsuns, Toyota Supras, Nissan Skylines, or modern-day Honda Type Rs, this event is a must-attend for fans of Japanese automotive craftsmanship.
What You Can Expect from Japanese Car Cruise-In 2025
The event will showcase an impressive variety of Japanese cars and motorcycles, from rare imports to custom-tuned street racers. Spread across multiple floors of the Petersen Garage, this gathering is an immersive experience for car lovers. Ticket options include general admission, show car registration, and spectator access, with perks like free parking, museum admission, and exclusive Japanese snacks. The Petersen Museum
Store will also be open, offering exclusive memorabilia for collectors. For anyone passionate about JDM culture, performance tuning, and automotive history, this is a perfect place to connect with fellow enthusiasts and admire some of the best Japanese cars in the country.
CLASSIC CHEVYS OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA 42ND ANNUAL CHARITY CAR SHOW
Date: May 4, 2025
Location: Rydell Chevrolet, Northridge, CA
Organizer: Classic Chevys of Southern California
Classic Chevys of Southern California 42nd Annual Charity Car Show via Southern California Car Club Facebook
What the Event is About
Celebrating its 42nd year, the Classic Chevys of Southern California Annual Charity Car Show is a highly respected event that brings together some of the most beautifully restored classic Chevrolets in the region.
Organized by Classic Chevys of Southern California, the show raises funds for Rancho San Antonio Boys Home, making it a fun-filled event that supports a great cause. Attendees can expect an impressive collection of 1950s and 1960s Chevys, muscle cars, custom lowriders, and vintage trucks, each meticulously restored or modified.
What You Can Expect from Classic Chevys of Southern California’s Car Show in 2025
This family-friendly event includes a car showcase, live music, food vendors, and a charity raffle. Whether you're a collector, a restorer, or simply an admirer of classic American cars, this event is a great opportunity to see rare Chevys up close. Judging competitions will award Best in Show and People’s Choice trophies, with participants displaying their cars in pristine condition.
The event also features vendor booths offering automotive memorabilia, restoration services, and exclusive Chevy merchandise. If you love classic American cars and want to support a meaningful charity, this is one show you won’t want to miss.
CARS & STRIPES FOREVER!®
Date: June 27, 2025
Location: Port of Los Angeles, San Pedro, CA
Organizer: Port of Los Angeles
Cars & Stripes Forever!® via Port Of LA.jpg
What the Event is About
Cars & Stripes Forever!® is a patriotic-themed car show that combines classic American automobiles, live entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks show. Held at the Port of Los Angeles, this event kicks off the Fourth of July celebrations, attracting car enthusiasts, families, and tourists alike. The show pays tribute to classic hot rods, muscle cars, and military vehicles, making it an exciting mix of automotive history and American pride.
What You Can Expect from Cars & Stripes Forever! in 2025
Attendees can expect a massive display of classic cars, from vintage Ford Mustangs and Chevrolet Camaros to WWII-era military vehicles, all parked along the scenic waterfront. The event features live rock and country music performances, making it a festive atmosphere for visitors of all ages.
As night falls, the sky lights up with a spectacular fireworks display over the harbor, capping off a perfect summer evening in Los Angeles. The event is family-friendly and free to the public, making it an excellent way to celebrate America’s love for cars and community.
CARS & COFFEE LA
Dates: May 25, June 29, July 27, 2025 (7:00 AM – 10:00 AM)
Location: Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round Lot Two, Los Angeles, CA
Organizer: Cars & Coffee LA
Cars & Coffee LA via their website
What the Event is About
Cars & Coffee LA is a monthly gathering for car enthusiasts, photographers, and designers, offering a relaxed and informal way to appreciate stunning vehicles in a scenic setting. The event is known for attracting a diverse range of cars, from high-end supercars to classic muscle cars and rare imports. It’s a low-key yet exciting way to connect with the local automotive community while enjoying a morning cup of coffee.
What You Can Expect from Cars & Coffee LA in 2025
Unlike structured car shows, Cars & Coffee LA has a more spontaneous and casual vibe. Each event welcomes a different lineup of cars, making every gathering unique and unpredictable. Hosted at Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round Lot Two, the event offers a beautiful outdoor backdrop for automotive photography.
Attendees are encouraged to respect the environment and keep noise levels down, ensuring that the event remains a welcoming space for everyone. If you love early morning drives, coffee, and car culture, this is a perfect way to spend a Sunday morning in LA.
LA AUTO SHOW 2025
Dates: November 22 – December 1, 2025
Location: Los Angeles Convention Center
Organizer: ANSA Productions
LA Auto Show via their site
What the Event is About
The LA Auto Show is one of the largest and most influential auto shows in the world, attracting hundreds of thousands of attendees each year. Featuring over 1,000 vehicles, this event is a global platform for automotive debuts, emerging technology, and interactive experiences. Whether you’re an industry professional, car enthusiast, or a potential buyer, this show provides an unparalleled look at the future of the automotive industry.
What You Can Expect from the LA Auto Show in 2025
The 2025 LA Auto Show will highlight the latest EVs, concept cars, and performance models from top automakers like Tesla, Ford, Porsche, and Toyota. Visitors can experience interactive exhibits, test drives, and unique showcases, such as the off-road adventure zone and custom car builds. Car buyers can compare vehicles side by side, explore financing options, and even place orders directly at the show.
Beyond new model debuts, LA Auto Show 2025 will also host AutoMobility LA, an industry-exclusive event featuring keynote speakers, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. If you’re looking for a comprehensive automotive experience that blends business, technology, and car culture, this is the event to attend.
Things to Know Before Attending These Automotive Events as a Brand
Attending automotive events in Los Angeles is a prime opportunity for brands to connect with enthusiasts, showcase products, and build industry relationships. Whether you're exhibiting at LA Auto Show, sponsoring Cars & Stripes Forever!, or displaying your vehicle at Japanese Car Cruise-In, proper planning can make the difference between blending in and standing out. Here’s what your brand needs to know before hitting the show floor.
1. Choose the Right Event for Your Brand
Each event caters to a different audience, so make sure you’re attending the right one for your goals.
Japanese Car Cruise-In: Ideal for JDM parts manufacturers, custom builders, and collectors.
Classic Chevys Charity Show: Perfect for restoration shops, classic car dealers, and parts suppliers.
Cars & Stripes Forever!®: Great for American muscle car brands and patriotic-themed marketing.
Cars & Coffee LA: Best for grassroots engagement and networking with local enthusiasts.
LA Auto Show: A must for major automakers, tech companies, and high-profile product launches.
Research your audience and align your presence with the event that best fits your brand.
2. Plan a Visually Engaging Booth or Display
Your display is the first impression attendees will have of your brand. Whether you're setting up a trade show booth at the LA Auto Show or bringing a show car to Japanese Car Cruise-In, make it visually appealing and interactive.
Use bold branding, banners, and LED displays to stand out.
Offer product demos — hands-on engagement drives interest.
Have informative signage with QR codes linking to your website or promotions.
Bring freebies — branded keychains, stickers, or apparel keep your brand top-of-mind.
3. Leverage Social Media & Event Marketing
Your event presence shouldn’t start on the day of the show — it should begin weeks in advance.
Announce your participation on social media and email campaigns.
Use event hashtags like #LAAutoShow or #CarsAndCoffeeLA to increase visibility.
Share behind-the-scenes prep to build excitement.
Consider live-streaming from the event to engage with audiences who can’t attend.
Bonus Tip: If allowed, offer an exclusive in-event discount or promo code to drive post-event sales.
4. Network & Build Industry Relationships
Trade shows and car meets are not just about showcasing your brand, they're about making connections.
Talk to other exhibitors and attendees — potential partnerships can come from anywhere.
Attend networking mixers and private industry events.
Have a designated team member focused on gathering leads.
Collect business cards or email contacts for follow-ups.
Building relationships before, during, and after the event ensures long-term benefits beyond a single show.
5. Be Ready for Logistics & Event Rules
Every event has different entry requirements, setup deadlines, and guidelines.
Check exhibitor deadlines — late applications could mean missing out.
Know load-in and breakdown times for setting up your booth or car display.
If you have a vehicle showcase, make sure it meets the event’s criteria.
Bring enough marketing materials, merchandise, and staffing to manage foot traffic.
Partner with Good Kids to Make Your Next Automotive Event Special
In the automotive industry with hundreds of cars parked right next to yours, standing out at events requires expert planning, engaging visuals, and flawless execution. Whether you're launching a new car, exhibiting at a major trade show like the LA Auto Show, or hosting a private media event, Good Kids is your trusted partner in creating an unforgettable experience.
We specialize in event production, trade show booth design, and immersive brand activations that capture attention. From crafting stunning vehicle launch experiences to producing high-quality media content, we ensure your brand commands the spotlight. Our team handles logistics, staging, and interactive installations, allowing you to focus on audience engagement.
Professional photography and video production are key to making a lasting impact. We create cinematic-quality media, including live-streamed product reveals and high-energy promotional content as we have done for other automotive brands like Audi, Toyota, and Dodge in the past. Whether you need on-site event coverage, influencer collaborations, or a social media campaign, we help your brand reach the right audience before, during, and after the event.
