Event Update
This event took place July 17-19, 2026. It was a great turnout. Check the Events Guide for what's happening now.
If the rumble of a big-block V8 gets your blood pumping, you'll want to clear your calendar this weekend. The Street Machine Nationals are rolling into St. Paul — and it's the kind of show that'll have gearheads, families, and curious bystanders all walking away smiling.
Event at a Glance
Location
Minnesota State Fairgrounds
1265 Snelling Ave N, St. Paul
When
This weekend
Check the official site for exact show hours
Tickets
Available online in advance
What to Expect
300+ show cars · live music · vendor midway · family-friendly
What's the Street Machine Nationals?
It's exactly what it sounds like — one of the Midwest's biggest gatherings of street machines, muscle cars, hot rods, and custom builds. We're talking rows upon rows of polished chrome, gleaming paint jobs, and engines that'll shake your sunglasses off. The fairgrounds fill up with everything from resto-modded Chevelles to slammed trucks to factory-clean Mustangs.
And it's not just a car show. There's live music, a vendor midway packed with parts and gear, and enough food to keep the whole crew fed. Bring the kids — it's a family-friendly event with plenty to see beyond the car corral.
Why Lake Locals Should Go
Look, we spend most of our weekends on the water. That's the whole point of living on a lake. But every once in a while, it's nice to shift gears — literally. The Street Machine Nationals is a quick 20–30 minute drive from Mahtomedi or White Bear Lake, and it's the kind of event that brings out a great crowd. Car enthusiasts, sure, but also families looking for something different to do on a summer Saturday.
Plus, it's indoors and out — so even if the July weather throws a curveball, there's plenty under cover at the fairgrounds.
Getting There from the Lakes
- From Mahtomedi: ~25 minutes via I-694 W and Snelling Ave
- From White Bear Lake: ~20 minutes via I-694 W
- From Stillwater: ~30 minutes via I-94 W
Plan Your Visit
Tickets are available online — grab them ahead of time and skip the line. The fairgrounds are at 1265 Snelling Ave N in St. Paul, with plenty of parking on-site. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes — you'll cover a lot of ground.
Whether you're a die-hard car guy, looking for a fun family outing, or just curious what a '69 Camaro with a supercharger sounds like in person — this is your weekend. Grab the crew, make the short drive over to St. Paul, and enjoy the show.
See you at the fairgrounds.
More to Do This Weekend
- Full Events Guide → — Everything happening across the lake communities this summer.
- Local Restaurants → — Where to grab a bite before or after the show.