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Highlighting the best, most innovative, and sometimes bizarre automobiles of the past, vintage car shows are as fun as they are fascinating. For those in Charlotte, NC, looking for a stunning collection of the best classic, collector, vintage, and antique cars, there's no better show than the Charlotte AutoFair. With more than 150,000 attendees expected every year, this four-day event is one of the most exciting things to happen in the area during spring and fall. If you've never been to a vintage car show before, the organizers of the Charlotte AutoFair have a few tips so you can make the most of your time.

5 Ways to Make Your First Vintage Car Show a Great Experience

Get to Know the Map

With so much to see, it's important to take time reviewing the map beforehand. This doesn't mean making a detailed diagram and an hourly schedule. You just don't want to waste time trying to figure out where and when everything's happening! At the very least, for your own comfort, you should familiarize yourself with the locations of the bathrooms as well as the food vendors.

Wear Walking Shoes

The Charlotte AutoFair stretches across 150 acres, and although it's a four-day event, you don't want to go too slowly through the fairgrounds. Even if you don't plan on looking at everything, there's a chance what you want to see will be on opposite ends of the venue, so bring your best walking shoes!

Bring a Camera

vintage car showFrom awkward lighting to poor white balance issues, it can be difficult using smartphone cameras for outdoor events like a car show. If you really want to do these collector cars photographic justice, bring a real film or digital camera if you have one.

Ask Questions

Never forget that you're there with fellow car enthusiasts! They love cars just as much as you do, so don't be afraid to strike up a conversation. This applies to the car owners as well fellow attendees—there's always a chance to learn something new.

Budget for Food

Whether it's a car show or a music festival, major events always have tantalizing foods you don't want to miss out on. If you're not passionate about food, then at least remember: It's difficult to enjoy yourself on an empty stomach. You need the fuel for all the walking, talking, and sightseeing.

If you’re interested in seeing a spectacular vintage car show this fall, make plans to visit the Charlotte AutoFair on September 22-25. Organized by the Hornets Nest Region unit of the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA), they’ve been going strong since 1978! Their website has all the information you need to know about the event, but if you'd like to speak to someone directly, you can call at (704) 841-1990.

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