About This Festival

Rolling Into Roanoke is an annual car show and community festival held in downtown Roanoke, Indiana, showcasing over 500 show cars with a special theme each year. The 2025 event, scheduled for August 2nd (postponed from July 26 due to weather), celebrates "Air-Cooled Classics," highlighting family vacation-style vehicles from the 1950s to 1970s, such as Tin Can Campers, station wagons, and vans, featuring cars like Porsches, VWs, and Corvairs. The event is hosted in the historic downtown area and Roanoke Park, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.[1][2][3][4]

Location and Vibe

Held along Main Street and in Roanoke Park, the festival immerses visitors in the charm of Roanoke's historic village setting. It combines a nostalgic "memory-lane/block-party" atmosphere with live DJ music, creating a unique and friendly vibe appealing to families, car enthusiasts, and locals alike. The event is well-known in northeast Indiana for blending automotive history with community spirit, supported by volunteers and local organizations.[1][4]

Event Activities

  • Car Show: Over 500 classic and vintage cars with a focus on the air-cooled theme, including special exhibits from auto museums and private collections.
  • Special Attractions: Unique vehicles such as Futurliner #10, the Batmobile, and an Indy race car selfie station.
  • Boutique Eateries and Shops: Local restaurants and shops in downtown Roanoke participate, offering food and shopping experiences.
  • Fundraising: The event raises funds for automotive education/history initiatives, first responders, veterans, and youth in Allen, DeKalb, and Huntington counties.
  • Shuttle Service: Free shuttle from Roanoke Park to downtown for spectators’ convenience.
  • Accessibility: Handicap parking and accommodations are available at designated locations near the event.[1][2][3]

Rough Schedule

  • 10:00 a.m. – Show opens in downtown Roanoke and Roanoke Park
  • 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. – Viewing of show cars, visiting exhibits, shopping, and food vendors
  • Special exhibits and attractions are available throughout the event hours
  • Exact timing for individual attractions and special displays is typically found closer to the event on their official website and social media.

History and Founding

Rolling Into Roanoke began over a decade ago and by 2025 marks its twelfth year. It originated as a community-driven fundraiser and a celebration of automotive culture and history. Over time, it evolved into a premier, large-scale car event in northeast Indiana that not only appeals to car enthusiasts with its extensive show but also emphasizes community involvement and support for local charities and youth education.[1][4]

Additional Details

  • Show car pre-registration is recommended to secure downtown parking, with 400 guaranteed spots.
  • Day-of registration is available at Roanoke Park if downtown spots remain.
  • Trailer parking is at Roanoke Elementary School.
  • Spectator parking costs $5 at Roanoke Park, with proceeds supporting volunteer organizations.
  • Motorcycle and handicap parking are also available with shuttle access provided.[3]

This event offers a vibrant combination of classic cars, community gathering, dining, and entertainment in a scenic small-town setting, making it a distinctive and well-loved Indiana tradition.