Nostalgia English

NOSTALGIA CAR SHOW 2026 – When Hot Rodding Was a Way of Life

Do you remember the time when cruising wasn't an event – it was simply how you spent your weekend?

When cars were built in garages with your buddies, the cassette player blasting rock'n'roll, and inspiration came straight from American magazines – or from someone who had seen something a little different over in Sweden.

The first Nostalgia Car Show, held in 2018, proved that there is still a deep longing for the early years of Finnish hot rodding. It wasn't just about cars – it was an entire era brought back to life: American classics from the 1930s–60s built in true 70s–90s spirit, choppers, period-correct colors, pinball machines, clubs, custom builds and details that simply don't happen by accident anymore.

Now the story continues.

In June 2026, Nostalgia Car Show returns – this time to Hämeenlinna – with the goal of diving even deeper into the years when Scandinavian hot rod culture was still taking shape. The show will focus on vehicles that authentically represent the building style and spirit of the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, as well as the people who were young back then – and made it all possible.

Also present are the car clubs and associations that were founded during that golden cruising era and that remain an important part of the hobby today. Nostalgia Car Show is not just an exhibition – it's a reunion. A place where you once again hear phrases like, "Hey, long time no see."

Vehicle and car club registration is now open. The organizers also invite anyone with stories, personalities, phenomena, or other content connected to the era to take part – anything that deserves to be seen and remembered.

The event weekend will culminate in a Saturday evening cruising session, with more details to be announced soon.

If the hot rod culture of the 70s–90s meant something to you, this is where it all comes together again.