What not to do at a car show: 7 car show etiquette rules

Attending a car show can be an exciting experience, but it’s important to remember car show dos and don’ts to ensure everyone has a good time. You should respect the cars, the owners, and the rules of the event.

7 things not to do at a car show

To make the most out of your visit, here are seven things you should not do at a car show:

1. Disrespect other people’s property

Be respectful of other people’s property by not touching, leaning on, or sitting on their vehicles. Avoid leaning over the car to take a better look at the interior or engine bay, as this may cause scratches or dents. If you accidentally bump into a car, apologise and offer to pay for any damages.

2. Touching vehicles

If you’re interested in getting a closer look at a particular vehicle, ask for permission from the owner before touching it. Touching the cars can leave fingerprints, smudges, or even scratches, which can ruin the paint job. Many car owners put countless hours into restoring and maintaining their vehicles, and they may not want strangers touching them.

3. Doing burnouts

While it may be tempting to show off your car’s power and speed, performing burnouts at a car show is not allowed. It’s dangerous and disrespectful to the other attendees and the cars on display, plus it can give the organisers a bad reputation, which could lead to the venue not wanting the event back!

4. Racing your car

Car shows are not the place for racing, even if it’s just for fun. It’s important to respect the rules of the event and focus on enjoying the cars on display. So, don’t ruin the experience for others by racing or doing other dangerous activities.

5. Eating or drinking near the cars

Car shows are not picnics, and you should avoid eating or drinking near the cars. Food and drinks can spill and stain the cars, which can be difficult to clean. The smells from food can also attract bugs and animals that can damage the cars. If you’re hungry or thirsty, find a designated eating area away from the cars.

6. Not following the rules

Car shows have rules for a reason, and you should follow them to avoid getting kicked out of the event. Some of the common rules include no smoking, no loud music, and no pets. Always read the rules before attending the event and follow them to ensure everyone has a good time.

7. Bringing small children or pets

While car shows are family-friendly events, it’s best to leave small children and pets at home. Children can get restless and run around, which can be dangerous near cars. Pets can also get agitated and bark or scratch at the cars, which can upset owners. If you must bring your children or pets, make sure you keep them close and under control.

How to enjoy a car show: Interact with other attendees

Part of the fun of attending a car show is interacting with other attendees who share the same passion for cars. While there are things you shouldn’t do at a car show, there are also plenty of things you can do to make the most of your experience. Here are some tips for when engaging with others:

Being polite and respectful

A smile and a friendly greeting go a long way in creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere at a car show. Be respectful of other people’s opinions and avoid negative comments about their vehicles. Remember, everyone has their own unique taste in cars.

Engaging in conversation

Strike up a conversation with other attendees and ask them about their cars. This is a great way to learn more about different vehicles and their unique features. You may even make some new friends who share the same interests as you.

Networking opportunities

Car shows can also present excellent networking opportunities, especially if you’re in the automotive industry. Be sure to bring business cards and engage with other professionals in the field.

Ending the day on a high note

One of the best things about car shows is that they give you a chance to meet other car enthusiasts and chat about cars. As the day comes to an end, you’ll want to make sure you end on a high note.

There are usually plenty of different cars on display, so you’ll want to take your time walking around and admiring each one. If you get tired, take a break and sit down for a while. And don’t forget to take plenty of photos and videos!

A great tip: end the day by taking one last lap around the show and admiring all the cars one last time.

Whatever you do, make sure you enjoy yourself and have a great time at the car show!

Common Questions About Attending Car Shows