Crystal Lake Cars & Caffeine

About the Event

More Than a Car Show

Every year, three blocks of historic downtown Crystal Lake transform into an open-air showroom. Over 200 vehicles line Grant, Brink, and Williams streets—each one with a story under the hood. This year's show is Sunday, May 17, 2026, with a rain date of Sunday, May 31.

Grab a coffee, browse the local shops, and take in the small-town energy—all while supporting a great cause. 100% of net proceeds go to the Crystal Lake Food Pantry.

From Ferraris to Fords, Porsches to pickup trucks—if it has wheels and you're proud of it, it belongs here. No year, make, or model restrictions.

Every Vehicle Has a Place

Supercars & Exotics

European Luxury

Japanese Imports

American Muscle

Classic & Vintage

Hot Rods & Customs

Modern Sports Cars

Trucks & SUVs

Motorcycles

Our Cause

Driving Out Hunger

Crystal Lake Food Pantry

Every registration, every sponsorship—all net proceeds go directly to the Crystal Lake Food Pantry. Since 1983, they've been the safety net for families facing food insecurity in McHenry County.

In our community, 1 in 8 people struggle with hunger. The Food Pantry serves over 800 families each month, providing nutritious food with dignity and compassion. Your participation in this car show helps stock their shelves and fill empty plates.

$10K

2026 Fundraising Goal

800+

Families served monthly

100%

Net proceeds donated

Plan Your Day

Schedule & Awards

Everything you need to know to make the most of your experience

Event Schedule

7:30 AMCheck-in & Day-of Registration

9:30 AMRegistration Closes

10:00 AMShow Starts

12:30 PMAwards Ceremony

2:00 PMShow Ends

Be Prepared

Weather Policy

Rain or shine, we celebrate automotive passion

Light Rain

The show goes on! We're car enthusiasts—a little water won't stop us. Bring appropriate gear and enjoy the unique atmosphere.

Severe Weather

If severe weather is forecasted, the event will be postponed to our rain date: Sunday, May 31, 2026. Decision made by Friday, May 16 at 4:00 PM.

Updates

Weather decisions announced via our website and email to registered participants.

Refunds

All registrations are non-refundable. 100% of net proceeds are donated to the Crystal Lake Food Pantry.

Questions

Frequently Asked

What types of vehicles can participate?+

All vehicles are welcome! Classic cars, modern sports cars, muscle cars, imports, trucks, motorcycles, and anything with wheels that you're proud of. We celebrate all automotive enthusiasm. There are no year, make, or model restrictions.

Can I leave early if needed?+

For safety reasons, we ask that all show vehicles remain in place until 2:00 PM. This ensures the safety of spectators and maintains the integrity of the show. Emergency exits are available if absolutely necessary. Please inform staff at registration if you anticipate needing to leave early.

Are pets allowed at the event?+

Leashed pets are welcome! Please keep them under control at all times and clean up after them. We ask that pets be kept away from show vehicles unless you're the owner.

Is pre-registration required?+

Pre-registration is strongly encouraged to guarantee your spot. We have limited space for show vehicles, and historically we reach capacity before the event date. Day-of registration may be available but is not guaranteed.

Our Partners