Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals 2026
May 15-16, 2026 | Carlisle PA Fairgrounds
Take the kids on a trip around the automotive world without packing passports, snacks for a 12-hour flight, or explaining airport security to a preschooler. Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals brings more than 1,700 unique imported, performance, tuner, specialty, domestic, kit, motorcycle, truck, and high-end vehicles to the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds for two days of international car-show fun.
This is one of those Carlisle Events shows where the car-loving grownups get plenty to admire, but families also get built-in activities that keep kids engaged beyond “please do not touch that very shiny thing.” Expect cool cars, live music, RC racing, a passport scavenger hunt, kids’ prizes, food, vendors, and plenty of walk-around energy.
At a Glance
When: Friday, May 15 and Saturday, May 16, 2026
Hours: 7 AM to 6 PM both days
Where: Carlisle PA Fairgrounds, 1000 Bryn Mawr Road, Carlisle, PA
Admission: Daily admission is $12, event pass is $20, kids 12 and under are free, general parking is $10
Top Picks for Families
Passport Scavenger Hunt
This is the family gold star of the event. Pick up the free event guide, walk the grounds, stop at the country checkpoints, and collect all eight passport stamps. Adults can earn a limited-edition souvenir glass while supplies last, and kids 12 and under receive a special prize for completing the passport program.
Parent hack: Start this early. It gives kids a mission, helps everyone explore the show, and turns “we’re just walking around” into an official quest.
Free RC Racing
Kids and adults ages 6 and older can try RC racing in the Pavilion. Cars, controllers, and track are provided, so you do not need to bring anything except your competitive spirit and possibly a child who suddenly believes they are a tiny motorsports legend.
Parent hack: This is a great reset activity when kids need something hands-on after looking at cars for a while.
Kids at Carlisle Activities
Kids 12 and under can pick up a free kids’ goody bag at Guest Services, sign up for the RC Car Giveaway and Kids Cash Grab, and vote for their favorite vehicle in Building T for the Kids Choice Award.
Parent hack: Make Guest Services an early stop so you do not forget the goody bag, giveaway sign-up, or kid-friendly extras.
Live Music on Saturday
Saturday brings live music in two locations, including acoustic music in the Brew Mixer Tent and Soup Kitchen performing on the Showfield. It adds festival energy without making the whole place feel like a toddler drum circle inside your skull.
Parent hack: The music makes a great “sit, snack, and regroup” moment.
Rolling Burnout, Drifting & Showfield Action
For kids who love noise, motion, and anything that feels like a real-life video game, watch for scheduled performance features like autocross, drifting exhibitions, contests, and the Rolling Burnout Competition.
Sensory note: Some areas may be loud. Bring ear protection for sound-sensitive kids or anyone who prefers their eardrums unseasoned.
Tips for Visiting with Kids
- Bring ear protection. Performance cars can get loud, especially near contests and track-style activities.
- Start at Guest Services. Pick up the event guide, ask about kids’ activities, grab goody bag info, and get oriented.
- Use the passport program as your route. It gives kids a goal and helps you see more of the show.
- Pack water and snacks. There are food vendors, but emergency snacks are the duct tape of family outings.
- Wear good walking shoes. The fairgrounds are big, and your cute sandals may file a formal complaint.
- Plan a noise break. Step away from the loudest areas when kids need a reset.
- Let kids take photos. Giving them a camera or phone for car-spotting turns the day into a scavenger hunt of its own.
