Variety is spice of life, or so it’s said. If that is indeed the case, the variety at the annual Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals offers enough variety for nine-lives. For two days in May (14-15) the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds become the epicenter for an international showcase unlike any. With more than a half dozen countries represented, the sights are jaw-dropping, the activities are optically appealing, and the history is mentally stimulating.
It's easy to find your vehicle of choice as they are parked on grounds by country of origin and are easily identifiable by that countries flag. Countries include England, Germany, France, Japan, Korea, the United States, Italy and Sweden. For 2021, even muscle cars from the states are welcome. As part of this international showcase, guests can walk the grounds and have a special passport stamped by International Ambassadors, allowing for collectible souvenirs at the end of this “around the world” tour. There will even be some food themed per country, meaning guests can both see the automotive world and taste it too. These specialty foods will be available for purchase from select vendors within (or near) the food court.
Annually, this event also spotlights special themes. 2021 spotlights include a big Volvo celebration, 20 years of the Honda K-Series, a display of race cars in the Race Paddock and 30 years of the Toyota 2JZ engine. Additionally, the Opel Manta turns 50, the club, Opels at Carlisle, celebrates 25 years of attending the show AND the 15th annual Opel Nationals meet, which rotates locations annually, has rotated its way to Carlisle for 2021!
Along with featured vehicle displays and the international Showfield, there are awards available, not just for those showing, but for those who attend as spectators. eJudged.com hosts drive through judging for registered Showfield members. Cars don’t just show, they go. There is a low car limbo, drift limbo, rolling exhaust contest, a parade of Opels and of course drifting itself hosted by NICOClub.com.
Aside from the cars and those who power them, this event would be nothing without its passionate base of vendors. From kit car vendors to those selling pieces, parts and collectibles geared to the import lovers, enthusiasts of this show should know that there is no better place to show a car, build a car or find pieces for a car than the Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals.
Not only are the cars and guests welcome but so are the dozens of car clubs who make this event the coolest weekend hangout in the hobby! Carlisle Events is COVID-19 compliant and follows current guidelines suggested by state officials as well as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). A detailed Health/Safety Measures summary is available on CarlisleEvents.com. While on the web, be sure to apply, register, or purchase discounted spectator tickets in advance of the show or call 717-243-7855 to learn more today.