Annual Father's Day Car Show, Contest & Festival
Program Details & Spotlights
Spend Father's Day weekend at one of Lake Anna's premier waterfront parks! Presented by the Lake Anna Business Partnership, this annual lakeside festival showcases an impressive collection of classic cars, custom hot rods, muscle cars, and vintage trucks competing for cash prizes and trophies. Attendees can browse a vibrant artisan market, sample delicious food from local vendors, and enjoy live music with spectacular waterfront views. Best of all, proceeds benefit the LABP Scholarship Fund which provides educational funding to local high school students.
There is no better way to celebrate Dad than with the rumble of classic V8 engines, the smell of smoky local pit BBQ, and the stunning backdrop of Lake Anna's sparkling waters. The Annual Father's Day Car Show, Contest & Festival at Pleasants Landing has cemented itself as one of the lake's most anticipated kick-offs to summer. Located on the southern end of the lake in Bumpass, this sprawling waterfront park transforms into a paradise for gearheads, families, and anyone looking to soak up the vibrant lake lifestyle.
As you stroll through the manicured peninsula of Pleasants Landing, you will be treated to an incredible showcase of automotive history. From meticulously restored vintage trucks and roaring muscle cars to sleek modern exotics and custom hot rods, the sheer variety of vehicles on display is spectacular. Car enthusiasts from across the Mid-Atlantic travel to compete for top trophies and cash prizes, meaning you'll see some of the finest builds in the region. Best of all, this event is powered by a great cause. Organized by the Lake Anna Business Partnership (LABP), all proceeds from the festival directly benefit the LABP Scholarship Fund, helping local high school students chase their dreams of higher education.
But you don't have to be a car fanatic to fall in love with this festival. The event seamlessly blends a high-octane car show with a relaxed lakeside street fair. Live music fills the air, competing only with the gentle lapping of waves against the shoreline. Between admiring the chrome, you can browse a diverse marketplace featuring local Virginia artisans, crafters, and businesses. And when hunger strikes, local food trucks will be serving up everything from classic festival fare to fresh local treats, perfect to pair with a cold beverage as you watch the boats cruise by.
Why You Should Attend
- Stunning Waterfront Venue: Pleasants Landing offers some of the best 360-degree lake views on the water, complete with a sandy beach area and panoramic vistas.
- Community Impact: Enjoy a fantastic day out knowing your gate admission or entry fee goes directly to supporting local Lake Anna area high school seniors.
- Incredible Variety: Get up close and personal with rare classics, highly modified custom builds, and roaring muscle cars you won't see anywhere else.
- Family-Friendly Fun: With live music, delicious food vendors, and a bustling artisan market, there is plenty of entertainment for kids, grandparents, and everyone in between.
Insider Tips for the Perfect Lakeside Day
- Arrive Early for Premium Spots: Pleasants Landing is a popular destination, and parking fills up quickly. Arrive closer to the 11:00 AM start time to secure a great spot and beat the midday heat.
- Pack Your Lawn Chairs: While there are plenty of spots to wander, bringing a couple of comfortable folding chairs allows you to set up camp under the shade trees by the shoreline and enjoy the music.
- Bring Sunscreen and Swimwear: The park features a beautiful beach area. Keep the kids entertained by letting them splash in the designated swimming zones between checking out the cool cars.
- Cash is King: While many vendors and food trucks accept credit cards, having some cash on hand is highly recommended for quick transactions, raffle tickets, and voting for your favorite cars.
⚓ Local Visitor Navigation Tips & Parking
Admission is completely free to the public, with a $5 parking fee per vehicle. Vehicle registration to enter the show is $35 in advance. If coming by water, transient boat slips are available at Pleasants Landing Marina on a first-come, first-served basis.