The Thunder Road Car Show & Swap Meet took place on Saturday, March 21st, 2026, in Maynardville, TN, with an incredible turnout that brought together car enthusiasts from near and far for a day celebrating automotive culture, community, and family fun. This year’s event showcased 262 registered cars, from vintage classics to modern muscle, attracting an estimated 1,500+ spectators who strolled through the show all day, taking in the sights, sounds, and energy of the event.

Attendees had plenty to explore with a wide selection of food trucks, including Uncle B's BBQ, Bus Stop Burgers, and Lulu's Snack Shack, serving up local favorites and numerous swap meet vendors, offering everything from rare vintage parts to the latest automotive products. One of the highlights of the day was the Moonshine Alley display, presented by the Union County Historical Society and our Honorary Moonshiner David Lynn Sexton, featuring a 1957 Ford 300 sedan, a 1940 Ford Business Coupe, and a 1950 Ford Sedan, offering visitors a glimpse into the area's rich automotive and local history.

Participants competed for the Top 40 and Best of Show Awards, proudly sponsored by Tennessee Coachworks, which celebrate the craftsmanship, dedication, and passion of car owners from across the region. Music and entertainment were provided by Gary’s Sound Machine, who served as the event DJ and kept the energy lively throughout the day.

The success of the Thunder Road Car Show & Cruise In would not have been possible without the support of our incredible sponsors and volunteers. A special thanks goes to our event sponsor, Union County Parks and Recreation. Awards Sponsor: Tennessee Coachworks. Our door prize sponsors, including Advanced Auto Parts, Autozone, Summit Racing Equipment, Knoxville Dragway, Maynardville Farm Bureau, Bel Air Grill, County Line Tire & Brake, Kay's Market, Okies Pharmacy, Tires 2 You, Thunder Road Cruise In, and the Union County Opry. We also deeply appreciate our goodie bag sponsors, including Knoxville TVA Employees Credit Union, Coker Tire, Meguiars Car Care Products, Tennessee Governor's Highway Safety Office, Cash Express, New South Credit Union, Long & Low Customs, RockAuto.com, Destiny Cates, and Samantha Hamilton. Also, I want to thank the entire Thunder Road Car Show Crew who helped make the day extra special for attendees.

With so many cars to admire, vendors to explore, and memories made, the event truly showcased the spirit of community and the shared love of cars that brings people together. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who attended, helped out, and supported the Thunder Road Car Show & Swap Meet, and we can’t wait to host another event soon!

Thanks,
Charlie Hamilton
Thunder Road Car Show & Swap Meet