If you are a car enthusiast in Northern Ireland, you are never far from a great event. From larger shows packed with modern supercars to relaxed classic car meetups in beautiful locations, there’s something for everyone throughout the year.
Whether you are planning a weekend outing or your next road trip, this guide covers the best car shows and events in Northern Ireland worth attending in 2026.
Must-attend general car shows
Only have time to attend one event this year? These are the ones that need to be in your calendar.
Dubshed 2026
- When: 11th and 12th of April
- Where: Eikon Exhibition Centre, Lisburn
- What to expect: known as Ireland’s biggest car show, Dubshed certainly is a sensory delight. Expect hundreds of modified cars, a dedicated classic section, and crowd favourite, Drift Taxi.
DeLorean Eurofest 2026
- When: 11th to 14th of June 2026
- Where: Belfast City Hall, Stormont, Dunmurry test track
- What to expect: This is definitely a once-in-a-decade event. Unfortunately, the full delegate registration is sold out, but there is a Public Classic Car Show at Stormont on Saturday, June 13th, where over 140 Deloreans from around the world gather together.
Big Macmillan Motor Show 2026
When: 18th of June 2026
Where: Turkington Complex
What to expect: The Big Macmillan Motor Show is a well-loved local event that combines a great mix of classic cars, modern builds and community spirit. Alongside the vehicles, there’s a charitable focus, helping to raise money for a good cause. It’s friendly and perfect for car enthusiasts.
Best classic car shows in Northern Ireland?
Classic car lovers, this section is for you. Northern Ireland has a thriving vintage scene with events that celebrate pre-1990 (and older) cars.
Stormont Classic Car Show 2026
- When: Saturday, 13th of June, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm
- Where: Stormont Estate, Belfast
- What to expect: Organised with clubs like the MG Owners Club Northern Ireland, this is a highlight for classic owners. There will be beautifully restored MGs, Jaguars, and so much more. It’s open to the public and ties in perfectly with the DeLorean Eurofest VIP access, definitely a must for anyone into historic vehicles.
Kilbroney Vintage Show 2026
- When: 20th of June 2026
- Where: Kilborney Park, Rostrevor
- What to expect: Known as one of Europe’s largest classic vehicle gatherings, Kilbroney draws thousands of people with cars, bikes, commercials, tractors, and more. One of the show’s best attributes is that it is entirely volunteer-run, which creates a very friendly and welcoming atmosphere for everyone involved.
Tips for enjoying car shows in Northern Ireland
- Plan ahead: book tickets early for big events like Dubshed. Check the weather (Northern Ireland can be unpredictable) and arrive early for the best parking spots
- Bring the family: most shows are all-ages friendly with food stalls and activities
- Show your own car: many events welcome entries, just make sure you follow the organiser’s rules
- Talk to owners and exhibitors: car shows are one of the best places to meet like-minded people
- Take your time: it’s easy to rush through everything, but some of the best cars are tucked away. Slow down and enjoy the details
- Map out your highlights: larger events can be overwhelming to go through, so check the schedule in advance and prioritise displays and cars you don’t want to miss
When does a car become classic in Northern Ireland?
Understanding what qualifies as a classic can help you get more involved in these events:
In Northern Ireland, a car becomes classic when:
- They’re 40 years old or more
- They are MOT exempt, on a rolling basis
- They can qualify for a vehicle tax exemption
Do you need specialist insurance for a classic car?
If you are attending shows or investing time in a classic car, whether restoring it, modifying it, or only driving it seasonally, it’s important to have cover that reflects its true value, not just a standard market price. At Sterling NI, we understand that no two vehicles or owners are the same, which is why we offer tailored classic car insurance. Call 0333 256 0269 for a quote, or book a callback at a time that best suits you.
