Newport Antique Auto Hill Climb

The Newport Antique Auto Hill Climb is an annual festival held in Newport, Indiana, typically on the first weekend of October, running this year from October 3 to 5, 2025. It is regarded as the world's largest antique auto competition, featuring timed runs of antique cars, trucks, and motorcycles climbing Newport’s steep 1,800-foot-long Main Street hill. This event attracts over 250,000 visitors and is second in popularity in Indiana only to the Indy 500 and Brickyard 400.

This event is spearheaded by the Newport Lions Club and the town itself. Participants bring vehicles from various eras—Steam, Brass, Vintage, Antique, and Classic Car eras—making timed ascents up the courthouse square hill, showcasing automotive history in action.

Surrounding Area and Vibe:
Newport is a small Indiana town that comes alive during this weekend, with a lively blend of historic charm and festive atmosphere. The Courthouse Square and Main Street transform into a festival hub filled with classic vehicles, food vendors, flea markets, and two beer gardens. The vibe is family-friendly but energetic, mixing old-time automotive heritage with contemporary festival elements like live music and fireworks.

Key Activities and Attractions:

• Timed Hill Climbs: Antique vehicles and motorcycles compete in timed runs up the steep hill.
• Car Show: Displays of antique and classic cars for enthusiasts and the public.
• Parade: A lively parade starts at 6 PM on Saturday, showcasing participating vehicles and community groups.
• Fireworks: Nightly fireworks follow the parade and provide a festive close to the evening.
• Car Auction: An auction event where collectible antique vehicles are sold.
• Antique Car Raffle: Attendees can win an antique car through a raffle.
• Flea Market and Festival Foods: Vendors sell antiques, crafts, food, and drink.
• Music: Live music performances complement the event atmosphere.
• Two Beer Gardens: Providing refreshments in a social setting.

Rough Schedule (October 3-5, 2025):

• Friday: Event setup, early arrivals, possible smaller gatherings or preliminary activities.
• Saturday: Main hill climb timed runs during the day; Car shows open; Flea market and vendor activities; 6 PM Parade in town; Fireworks post-parade.
• Sunday (First Sunday of October): Primary hill climb competition runs; Continued car shows, auctions, raffle drawings, and fair food; Closing ceremonies.

History and Founding:
The Newport Antique Auto Hill Climb started on October 6, 1968. It was founded to celebrate and preserve antique automotive heritage by staging timed hill climb competitions on Newport’s historic Main Street hill. Organized by the Newport Lions Club, it has grown into a major international event that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, making it a significant cultural and automotive heritage festival in Indiana.

The event is fully handicapped accessible and provides a rich blend of competition, community, and celebration of antique vehicles and classic Americana. Contact can be made via their official website or phone, and more details are found on their Facebook page.