Johnny Carson Birthplace Car Show in Corning, Iowa (2026)
Downtown Corning will fill with classic cars, trucks, motorcycles and custom vehicles during the 12th Annual Johnny Carson Birthplace Car Show on Saturday, September 12, 2026.
The rain-or-shine car show takes place along Davis Avenue and around Central Park in downtown Corning. Visitors can walk through rows of vehicles, visit with their owners and explore the shops and restaurants surrounding the show.
The event is hosted by the Southwest Cruisers of Iowa Car Club.
2026 Johnny Carson Birthplace Car Show details
Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026
Location: Davis Avenue and Central Park in downtown Corning, Iowa
Vehicle registration: 9 a.m. to noon
Voting: Noon to 1 p.m.
Awards: 2:30 p.m.
Vehicle entry fee: $20
Weather: The show will be held rain or shine
The first 100 registered vehicles will receive dash plaques and goodie bags. Door prizes will also be awarded during the event. First- and second-place awards will be presented in each class.
What kinds of vehicles will be at the show?
The Johnny Carson Birthplace Car Show includes an extensive range of vehicle classes.
Stock and modified car classes are separated by model year, beginning with vehicles from 1954 and earlier and continuing through vehicles from 2015 and newer.
Additional classes include:
- Two-wheel-drive stock trucks
- Two-wheel-drive modified trucks
- Four-wheel-drive stock trucks
- Four-wheel-drive modified trucks
- Motorcycles of all makes
- Vehicles still in progress
- Rat rods and street rods
With classes covering everything from early classics to modern vehicles, you never know what may be parked along Davis Avenue.
Visiting downtown Corning during the show
The car show takes over Central Park and portions of downtown Corning, so expect traffic and parking changes near the event.
There will not be a Chamber Farmers Market in Central Park on September 12 because the car show will occupy the park and surrounding area.
While you are downtown, leave time to visit Corning’s locally owned shops, coffee spots and restaurants. For a sit-down meal, consider making reservations at Primrose Restaurant. You can also explore more ideas in our guide to the best things to do in Corning, Iowa.
Car enthusiasts may also enjoy visiting R&S Collectibles in downtown Corning, which features classic and antique cars, trucks and automotive memorabilia.
Why is it called the Johnny Carson Birthplace Car Show?
Corning is the birthplace of legendary television host Johnny Carson. Carson was born in a small house at 500 13th Street on October 23, 1925, and lived in Corning until his family moved away when he was a young child.
The restored Johnny Carson Birthplace preserves that connection to one of America’s best-known television personalities. Tours may be available during the warmer months or by appointment. Because schedules can change, check current tour information before your visit.
The birthplace is only a short distance from downtown, making it an easy addition to a day at the car show.
Contact information for vehicle owners
Questions about registering or entering a vehicle can be directed to the organizers:
- Larry: 402-305-8478
- Zimmy: 712-249-5256
- Tim: 712-621-9236
For announcements or weather-related updates, check the Southwest Cruisers of Iowa Car Club’s Facebook page before traveling.
📸 Brian Abeling / Iowa Road Trip
The Southwest Cruisers of Iowa, Car Club hosts the car show. Admission is free to attend.
Location: Davis Avenue in Corning, Iowa
