FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Start Your Engines: Muckleshoot Casino Resort's Hot Rod & Custom Car Show Returns Bigger Than Ever
Free two-day family event features more than 250 classic cars and hot rods, live entertainment, contests, food, and special guest appearances
AUBURN, WA — Muckleshoot Casino Resort is shifting into high gear this Labor Day Weekend as the 2nd Annual Hot Rod & Custom Car Show returns on Sunday, September 6, and Monday, September 7, 2026, from 10AM to 4PM each day. Admission is free, making it the perfect family-friendly destination to celebrate the holiday weekend.
Taking place in the parking lots directly outside the front entrance of Muckleshoot Casino Resort, the two-day outdoor festival will showcase more than 250 custom cars, classic cars, muscle cars, and hot rods from across the Pacific Northwest. Guests can stroll through rows of incredible vehicles while enjoying free live entertainment, a beer garden, food trucks, casino food specials, local vendors, interactive activities, and additional surprises throughout the weekend.
After the tremendous success of last year's inaugural event, the 2026 Hot Rod & Custom Car Show returns even bigger, bringing together car enthusiasts, families, and visitors from across the region for two days celebrating classic automotive culture, vintage Americana, and unforgettable entertainment.
"We're excited to welcome the community back for an even bigger and better Hot Rod & Custom Car Show," said Adrian Fox, CEO of Muckleshoot Casino Resort. "Our front entrance will be transformed into an incredible outdoor celebration of classic cars, live entertainment, and family fun. Whether you're a lifelong automotive enthusiast or simply looking for an unforgettable Labor Day Weekend outing, there's something for everyone to enjoy."
The festivities begin Sunday morning as the Flying Elvi make their exciting air arrival at 10:15AM, setting the stage for a day filled with nostalgia and entertainment. At 1 PM, the Legends of Rock: A Tribute Showdown takes center stage, where up to 10 talented individuals will compete for cash prizes and the title of top performer.
The excitement continues Sunday evening when legendary comedian and renowned automotive enthusiast Jay Leno takes the stage at the Muckleshoot Events Center at 5 PM. Tickets are on sale now starting at $50, offering guests the opportunity to cap off an unforgettable day of classic cars and comedy. As one of the world's most recognized collectors and enthusiasts of classic automobiles, Jay Leno's passion for cars is well known. Guests exploring the Hot Rod & Custom Car Show earlier in the day may even spot him checking out some of the incredible vehicles before taking the stage that evening.
The celebration rolls into Monday with another full day of classic cars, entertainment, food, and family fun before the return of the fan-favorite Pepsi Pin-Up Contest at 1 PM. Celebrating the timeless glamour and vintage style of the 1940s and 1950s, 15 contestants will compete for cash prizes, bragging rights, and the chance to be crowned this year's pin-up champion. The theme this year is “Patriotic Celebration.”
Owners looking to showcase their prized vehicles can register now for $45, which includes entry into the show on both days of the event. Participants will have the opportunity to put their prized rides in the spotlight, compete for recognition, and celebrate their passion alongside fellow automotive enthusiasts. The event will feature more than 230 awards, including 65 judged class awards, 50 cash awards totaling $4,000 in cash prizes—including a coveted $1,500 Coveted Best of Show and $1,000 Best of Show Casino Pick— making it the perfect opportunity to show off your craftsmanship, creativity, and one-of-a-kind vehicle. The first 200 entries will also receive an Event T-Shirt and Casino Gift.
So, join the fun! We’ll see you here!
For complete event details, vehicle registration, and Jay Leno tickets, visit https://muckleshootcasino.com/carshow.
###
________________________________________
Contact:
Muckleshoot Casino Resort
Robert Dearstine, Chief Marketing Officer
Phone: 800.804.4944 ext. 2011
Email: robert.dearstine@muckleshootcasino.com
Muckleshoot Casino Resort
Muckleshoot Casino Resort, known as the "Biggest and Best in the Northwest," offers an unmatched experience that blends luxury, entertainment, and comfort. Guests can unwind in one of 401 beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites, take in the serenity of the indoor pool, rejuvenate at the full-service labcəbut spa, or savor exceptional cuisine at the rooftop steakhouse, Smoke & Cedar—featuring sweeping views of Mt. Rainier, the Olympic Mountain range, and the Seattle skyline. As one of Washington’s premier casino destinations, Muckleshoot Casino Resort features the state’s largest selection of games, including over 3,400 gaming machines, 67 table games, and one of the largest smoke-free gaming rooms in the region. Dining options span the globe, taking guests on a culinary adventure, while the Muckleshoot Events Center and Galaxy deliver world-class entertainment year-round. Visitors also enjoy thoughtful amenities like complimentary valet service, Wi-Fi, covered parking, and free electric vehicle charging stations—ensuring every stay is as convenient as it is unforgettable.
https://muckleshootcasino.com/
Muckleshoot Indian Tribe
The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe is a Federally Recognized Indian Tribe composed of descendants of the Duwamish and Upper Puyallup Peoples who inhabited Central Puget Sound for thousands of years before non-Indian settlement. The word, Muckleshoot, is derived from the Native name for the prairie on which the tribe’s reservation was established in 1857. Today, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe is a major contributor to the local economy and community providing resources to other governments, schools, nonprofits, and churches throughout Washington. The benefits of the Muckleshoot Tribe’s economic revival go well beyond financial contributions. From landmark agreements protecting fish and wildlife habitats and innovative educational programming to hundreds of partnerships with organizations serving those in need throughout the state, the Muckleshoot Tribe is committed to improving the quality of life of its citizens, neighbors and work force while preserving its culture and laying the groundwork for a bright future. https://www.muckleshoot.nsn.us/