Firme Friday: Santa Barbara Lowrider Car Show Coming September 5
Classic cars, lowriders, oldies and community come together in Santa Barbara on September 5 for a full day of cruising, car contests, music, vendors, screenprinting and a special screening of American
If you love lowriders, classic cars, oldies, and the culture that surrounds them, mark your calendar for Saturday, September 5, 2026, because Santa Barbara is hosting a car show that promises to bring together some beautiful rides, good music, and plenty of community spirit.
The Lowrider Car Show will take place at 721 E. Cota Street in Santa Barbara from 10 AM to 3 PM, with a $20 entry fee per car.
The event will showcase classic rides from the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, giving car enthusiasts a chance to see everything from vintage cruisers to carefully restored lowriders.
A Celebration of Classic Cars
The heart of the event is the car contest, with categories representing the ‘50s, ‘60s, and ‘70s. And, of course, there will be a Best Overall in Show award for the ride that stands above the rest.
But this isn’t simply a car show. Lowriding has always been about more than the cars themselves. It’s about craftsmanship, music, style, family, friendship, and the communities that have kept the culture alive for generations.
For anyone who grew up around cruising, oldies, and classic cars, events like this are a chance to reconnect with a culture that continues to have a powerful presence throughout California.
DJ, Vendors & Screenprinting
The event will also feature a DJ, vendors, and screenprinting, giving attendees plenty to check out beyond the cars. Organizers are promising a day built around “Lowriders, Community & Good Vibes.”
And if you’re looking for something special to take home, the screenprinting and vendor area should give you an opportunity to pick up some unique merchandise while supporting local businesses and creators.
A Special Screening of American Homeboy
One of the highlights will be a special screening of American Homeboy at the Luke Theatre.
The documentary explores the world of lowriding and the people who have helped shape the culture, making the screening a natural addition to a day dedicated to classic cars and the communities behind them.
For fans of lowriders and Chicano culture, it’s a chance to experience the film in the same kind of community environment that inspired much of the culture in the first place.
Bring the Family, Bring the Ride
Whether you’re entering a car, coming to admire the classics, checking out the vendors, or simply looking for something different to do on Labor Day weekend, the Santa Barbara Lowrider Car Show looks like a solid excuse to spend the day around some beautiful cars and good people.
Santa Barbara Lowrider Car Show
721 E. Cota Street, Santa Barbara, CA
Saturday, September 5, 2026
10 AM–3 PM
$20 entry fee per car
50s, 60s & 70s Car Contest
Special screening of American Homeboy
DJ • Screenprinting • Vendors
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