Where chrome meets coastline

 

Long Beach's shoreline is about to transform into a living museum of vintage automobiles as the Sultans 32nd Annual Classic Car Show takes over Marina Green Park on Sunday, August 3, 2025. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., locals and car lovers from across Southern California will cruise into town to admire hundreds of impeccably restored classics. And the best part? Admission is completely free.

 

Set against the scenic backdrop of Shoreline Drive and Rainbow Harbor, this show isn’t just for gearheads. It’s a family-friendly event that blends nostalgia, craftsmanship, and community. Stroll past glistening rows of Chevys, Fords, hot rods, and custom lowriders while music plays and food vendors serve up SoCal staples.

 

Showcasing decades of American car culture

 

What began as a modest gathering of enthusiasts in the early '90s has grown into one of the most beloved and enduring summer events in Long Beach. Hosted by the Sultans Car Club — a tight-knit crew of classic car devotees — the show celebrates the artistry and Americana of auto design.

 

Expect to see everything from pristine '57 Bel Airs to roaring Mustangs, slammed Cadillacs to sleek Impalas. Every car on display tells a story, with many lovingly rebuilt by hand over years. Attendees often get the chance to chat directly with owners, who are more than happy to pop a hood or share a restoration tale.

 

What to expect on show day

 

Arrive early — prime viewing starts at 9 a.m., and by noon, Marina Green Park is buzzing. Organizers recommend using public transportation or biking in, as Shoreline Drive will see closures and parking fills fast.

 

Local vendors will offer refreshments and merchandise, and the relaxed beachside vibe makes it easy to spend the day. Bring a camera, sunscreen, and your walking shoes — the rows of vintage vehicles stretch across the entire park. Whether you’re a lifelong collector or just curious, there’s something magnetic about chrome under the sun.

 

Revving up Long Beach summer energy

 

The Sultans Car Show lands at the peak of Long Beach’s summer season, joining events like the Moonlight Movies series and weekend concerts at Shoreline Village. It’s part of what makes August in the city feel full of motion and memory — a celebration of both the past and the community that drives it forward.

 

And in a broader national context, as car ownership continues to evolve with electric trends and AI-assisted driving, events like these offer a powerful reminder of what cars once represented: freedom, craftsmanship, and identity. Long Beach is lucky to host one of the West Coast's most genuine tributes to that heritage.

 

Plan your visit to the Sultans Classic Car Show

 

If you’re looking for a free, unique, and unforgettable Long Beach weekend activity, mark your calendar for August 3. The Sultans Car Show is more than an event — it’s a snapshot of American history, restored and rumbling to life on the waterfront.