About This Festival
Bristow’s Octoberfest & Street Rod, Antique and Classic Car and Truck Show is held annually on the second Sunday of October at the Bristow Community Center in Bristow, Perry County, Indiana. This longstanding event began in 1990, organized by the Bristow Community Center Board, and aims to bring together the local community and visitors around a celebration of car culture, food, crafts, music, and family fun.
The event features a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere with a focus on classic car enthusiasts and families. The vibe is festive and community-oriented, enriched by friendly competition, music, and vendors offering food and crafts. It is fully handicapped accessible.
Key activities include:
- Car and Truck Show: Registration starts at 8 AM with street rod inspections. There are over 80 awards given, including special awards, recognizing vintage, classic, and street rod vehicles. Dash plaques are provided to participants.
- Food and Craft Vendors: Local vendors offer various foods and crafts, contributing to a market-like, festive setting.
- Country Store and Flea Market: Visitors can shop for unique items and antiques.
- Wagon Rides: Family-friendly wagon rides provide a leisurely way to experience the event grounds.
- Music Entertainment: Live music adds to the festive atmosphere throughout the day.
- Raffles: Opportunities for visitors to participate in raffles add excitement.
A rough schedule for the day (all at Bristow Community Center grounds) typically includes:
- 8:00 AM – Vehicle registration and street rod inspections begin.
- Morning to afternoon – Car and truck show remains open with ongoing vehicle viewing and judging.
- Throughout the day – Vendors open; live music performances; wagon rides available.
- Award ceremonies take place later in the day, recognizing car show winners and special categories.
- Raffle drawings occur intermittently.
Historically, this event has served as a community gathering since 1990, growing over decades into a notable regional attraction combining the passions of car enthusiasts with a family-friendly fall festival. It maintains a strong tradition of volunteer involvement and community spirit.
Contact details for more information or participation include the Bristow Community Center Board, with a phone contact of (812) 547-7933 and promotional presence on Perry County’s website and social media.
This event is distinct from other nearby October festivals but shares a common celebration of fall flavors and community pride.