Shades of the Past Rod Run Roundup

Location: Dollywood Splash Country, Pigeon Forge, TN

Dates: September 7th – 8th, 2012

Photo Credit: www.insidepigeonforge.com

The Smoky Mountain area hosts a number of car shows throughout each year so if you are a fan of classic cars, then you've probably heard of the The Shades of the Past Rod Run Roundup, and maybe even attended in the past. It has become an annual event over the past few decades, and this year marks the 30th year for this highly anticipated event. If you are a novice car enthusiast, you will be in for a treat. This isn't just any car show, it exhibits a wide range of cars including rods, customs, and classics alike. Plus, it is truly a unique event because it only showcases cars through 1972.


It all takes place at Dollywood Splash Country in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and even if you are in the remote area, you're bound to see rods driving up and down the Parkway all weekend long. Traffic may be quite atrocious, but at least you'll have all these nice cars to look at as you slowly make your way through town. Some folks even set up lawn chairs all along the strip and watch as the parade of classics pass on by.

Once again, this event is a part of the AMSOIL Street Rodder Road Tour Stopover. Admission to the "Shades" Hot Rod Roundup is $10 per day, and free for children under the age of 12. There are several options for parking, but most spectators choose to park for free at the city's paved lot on Teaster Lane, and ride one of the city trolleys to and from the show site for a small fee of .50 cents each way. Scooters will be available to rent at Gate #2, there are tons of cars to see after all.

So whether you are an avid car enthusiast, or even if you have just gained an appreciation for classics recently, the Shades of the Past Rod Run Roundup is the best place to discover an enhanced admiration for pre-73 cars! Who knows, maybe you'll be so inspired, you will even become a participant someday in the future!

For more information on this event, visit www.shadesofthepast.com. If you are searching for lodging near the "Shades" Rod Run, visit www.smokiesrentals.com.