Annual Eureka Springs Volkswagen Show & Parade Attracts VW Fans

The Annual Eureka Springs VW Show is a Can't-Miss Event

Every fall, Volkswagen enthusiasts from around the Ozarks region and beyond descend on the quaint Victorian town of Eureka Springs, Arkansas for one of the area's premiere car shows: The Eureka Springs Annual VW Show and Parade.

A Showcase for All Things VW

The Eureka Springs VW Show brings together owners and fans to celebrate the iconic Volkswagen brand. Air-cooled Beetles, Microbuses, Karmann Ghias, Things, and more line the streets to compare custom builds and share VW stories.

Hundreds attend the judged car show competition to show off months of restoration work and unique custom details in hopes of taking home a coveted trophy. Classes are divided by VW model type and era, recognizing standout VWs from every generation.

VW Parade Through Downtown Eureka Springs

The highlight of the weekend is the Eureka Springs VW Parade, when the show cars proudly cruise through downtown. Spectators line the parade route eager to get an up-close view of the creativity and craftsmanship that goes into restoring and modifying these VW classics.

Decked out cars buzz by outfitted with custom paint jobs, shiny chrome accents, nostalgic period-correct accessories, and performance upgrades. Proud owners smile and wave from behind the wheel, as parade-goers cheer for their favorite rides.

Fall Fun for Enthusiasts in the Ozarks

The Eureka Springs VW Show has cemented itself as one of the can't-miss events in the yearly car show circuit. The fall weekend provides a perfect opportunity for driving Ozark mountain roads to enjoy colorful fall foliage on the way into town.

Along with the car show and parade, attendees find plenty of attractions around Eureka Springs to entertain them for the whole weekend. Downtown offers a variety of bars, restaurants, galleries, and shops to explore.

History of the Eureka Springs VW Show & Parade

The Eureka Springs Annual VW Show was started in 2013 by Tim Thompson. Thompson was a long-time VW owner and member of local enthusiast clubs who wanted to bring the Volkswagen community together in Eureka Springs.

Inaugural Event Brings VW Fans Together

The first Eureka Springs VW Show in 2013 exceeded expectations, with over 80 Volkswagens participating in the car show and parade through downtown. Based on the enthusiasm from owners and fans, it was clear the event would become a hub for uniting VW culture in the Ozarks region.

Each year, attendance has grown as word spread. VW clubs now organize annual 'Vacays' to Eureka Springs to take part in the automotive celebration and enjoy the fall scenery.

Expanded Show Encourages Creativity

Today the Eureka Springs VW Show features a diversity of classes and entry categories to accommodate VWs of every era and style.

In addition to preservation class judging focused on period-correct details, the custom categories encourage tasteful modifications and creativity. Awards like "Furthest Distance" bring enthusiasts from distances over 1,000 miles away.

Nightlife Extends the Weekend Fun

As the VW Show has expanded, so have the weekend events associated with it. Many downtown bars and restaurants support a 'VW After Party' to keep the fun going into the evening after the parade.

VW-themed hotel packages encourage overnight stays, while Sunday 'recovery brunch' specials and activities cater to enthusiasts who want to extend their weekend in Eureka Springs.

Tips for Attending the Eureka Springs VW Show

If the Eureka Springs VW Show sounds like your kind of automotive heaven, make plans to attend this popular fall event.

Reserve Lodging Early

Eureka Springs offers a variety of vintage hotels, independent inns, cabins, and VRBO properties to fit any budget. But rooms do fill up fast!

Book a room or rental house at least 2-3 months in advance for the best selection of overnight stay options during the VW Show weekend.

Allow Extra Time Downtown

Expect crowds downtown on Friday and Saturday as fans check out the show cars and watch the parade. Allow some extra time in your schedule for parking, pedestrian traffic, and finding an ideal spectating spot.

Grab some take-out food or a packed lunch to enjoy picnic-style if you'll be downtown for the day. Or plan to hang at a restaurant or pub so you don't lose your front row parade seats!

Enter Your VW Early

Are you ready to put your restored classic VW on display or take part in the parade? Be sure to submit your entry form early.

Registration is first-come, first-serve for this increasingly popular show. Competitors need to register their VWs online by September to secure an entry spot.

Plan Your Trip to the 2023 Eureka Springs VW Show!

Mark your calendars now for the first weekend in October 2023 when VW fans take over Eureka Springs again. It's the area's premier automotive happening celebrating Volkswagen culture.

Browse photos and videos from past years to get excited for the 2023 edition. Will your custom VW join the ranks of show winners?

Connect with the Eureka Springs Annual VW Show on social media for first access to updates. And be sure to share your own memories and meetups tagged #eurekaspringsvwshow when the big weekend arrives!

FAQs

What types of Volkswagens are on display at the show?

All air-cooled VW models are welcome at the show, including Beetles, Buses, Things, Karmann Ghias, and more. The diversity of entries is part of what makes the show so exciting for enthusiasts.

Do I need to register my VW to attend the show?

No registration is required to attend the show as a spectator. If you wish to display or parade your Volkswagen, registration is required in advance.

Does the Eureka Springs VW Show have food vendors?

Downtown Eureka Springs offers plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars within walking distance of the show. Many vendors also offer food & drink specials for attendees.

Where is the best view of the VW Parade?

The parade runs north to south down Spring Street through central downtown. Plan to arrive early for a front row view along the street.

Where can I find info about lodging for the event weekend?

Visit the Eureka Springs VW Show website for details on hotel packages and local vacation rentals. Book your stay early as rooms fill up fast.