Golden State Classics Car Show draws crowds to Downtown Paso Robles
By Camille DeVaul · Wed Jun 03 2026
Annual event showcases hundreds of classic vehicles while raising support for local nonprofits and community programs
PASO ROBLES — Classic cars and family-friendly fun took center stage over Memorial Day weekend as the 18th Annual Golden State Classics Car Show returned to Paso Robles Downtown City Park on Saturday, May 23.
The event once again proved to be a staple of the Central Coast, drawing car enthusiasts and families alike for a relaxed day beneath the park’s oak trees. Nearly 300 vintage, classic, and custom vehicles filled the park, giving attendees the opportunity to stroll through rows of gleaming chrome and meticulously restored rides.
From early muscle cars and hot rods to custom builds, trucks, and modern classics, the show offered something for every automotive enthusiast. More than 50 awards were presented across a wide range of categories, recognizing craftsmanship, originality, and creativity.
“It’s been a staple of the community for quite a while,” Golden State Classics Car Club Vice President Craig Veld said prior to the event. “Everybody looks forward to it.”
Hosted by the Golden State Classics Car Club, the event served as more than just a showcase of automotive excellence. It reflected the club’s ongoing mission to preserve, restore, and celebrate classic automobiles while supporting local causes. Over the years, the organization has donated thousands of dollars to area nonprofits, making the annual car show both a community tradition and an important fundraiser.
The club has supported numerous organizations through its charitable giving, including Redwings Horse Sanctuary, Hilltop Christian Fellowship, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Paso Robles, the Rotary Interact High School Club, and the Cancer Support Community of the Central Coast. Proceeds and fundraising efforts from this year’s event continued that tradition of community support.
In addition to the vehicles on display, attendees enjoyed live music, food vendors, raffle prizes, and a Manufacturer Row featuring automotive-related businesses and displays.
Golden State Classics Car Club President Grant Matthewson shared that the downtown businesses enjoyed having the show in town.
"They love us. There weren't any complaints, and they said, our show generates a lot of foot traffic," Matthewson said.
Families also found plenty to enjoy throughout the event. One of the most popular attractions was the 3rd Annual Model Building Make & Take, a free hands-on activity for children ages 8 to 14. Young participants assembled their own model cars using snap-together kits and customized them with stickers before displaying their creations and competing for prizes. Each child took home their completed model at the end of the day.
The festivities began the evening before with a Pre-Show Party in Santa Margarita. Participants also enjoyed a cruise through town, providing a lively kickoff to the weekend.
As the Golden State Classics Car Show celebrated its 18th year, its enduring popularity continued to demonstrate that the event is about more than automobiles. It remains a celebration of community, generosity, and tradition, bringing people together to admire craftsmanship, share stories, and support local causes.
Feature Image by Rick Evans/PRP