This year’s milestone event will feature an unparalleled collection of classic vehicles, including over 50 past winners of the prestigious America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) and Al Slonaker Memorial Award. Presented in the Feature Building by the Petersen Automotive Museum, this exclusive display will be the largest gathering of past winners ever assembled under one roof. Plus, the show will introduce a new crop of incredible builds vying for the 75th edition of these legendary awards.
When and Where:
America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) Competition
Eleven stunning new roadsters will compete for the coveted AMBR Award, one of the most prestigious honors in the hot rodding world. With a grand prize of $12,500 from ARP Fasteners, contenders this year include everything from classic T-buckets to timeless ‘32 Fords and ‘36 Fords.
Al Slonaker Memorial Award
Twelve top-tier hot rods, customs, and street machines will battle it out for the Al Slonaker Memorial Award, the show’s top non-roadster prize. Vehicles vying for this honor include a rare ’33 Pontiac, a classic De Tomaso Pantera, and an array of iconic builds like the Plymouth Roadrunner, Ford F100, and more.
The 75th Anniversary Feature Building
For the first time ever, over 50 AMBR and Al Slonaker winners will be on display in a dedicated Feature Building, showcasing the evolution of hot rodding over seven decades. Curated by the Petersen Automotive Museum, this special exhibit will also feature tributes to GNRS Hall of Fame inductees and iconic historical memorabilia.
2025 Builder of the Year: Bill Ganahl
The team at South City Rod and Custom will be honored as the 2025 Builder of the Year. Known for their impressive custom builds and restorations, Bill Ganahl’s shop has cemented its place as a powerhouse in the industry. Check out their award-winning creations in Building 4.
The 19th Annual Grand Daddy Drive-In
The Grand Daddy Drive-In returns as a special outdoor event, offering the perfect place for hot rod owners and car clubs to cruise in and show off their rides. Pre-registration is available for three-day cruise-in access, complete with prime parking, a dash plaque, and a goodie bag.
Chip Foose Appearance
Car designer and TV personality Chip Foose will make a special appearance to autograph a limited-edition 75th Anniversary GNRS poster. Foose, a former AMBR winner and Hall of Fame inductee, will meet with fans and sign autographs on Saturday from 1–4 p.m..
John Ewald Memorial Nitro Fire-Ups
Feel the roar of nostalgia at the John Ewald Memorial Nitro Fire-Ups. Experience the thunder of classic Top Fuelers and Funny Cars as they fire up in honor of legendary drag racer John Ewald. Fire-ups are scheduled for Friday at 4 p.m., Saturday at noon and 5 p.m., and Sunday at 1 p.m. outside Building 3.
2025 GNRS Hall of Fame Inductions
The Grand National Roadster Show Hall of Fame will welcome four new legends on Friday, Jan. 31. The 2025 inductees are Scott Bonowski (owner of Hot Rods & Hobbies), photographer Eric Geisert, Robert Williams (the “Godfather of Kustom Kulture”), and Larry Wood (“Mr. Hot Wheels”). The induction ceremony will be followed by an autograph session from 2-4 p.m. that afternoon.
George Barris Tribute Display
In Building 9, pay homage to the “King of Kustomizers,” George Barris, through a jaw-dropping display of 12 of his most iconic vehicles, including the Hirohata Merc, Batmobile, Munster Coach, and Dragula.
Industry-Leading Builds: See Dyno Don’s restored 1976 NHRA Pro-Stock Mustang II, Bill Niekamp’s record-setting 1927 Ford roadster, and a new creation by Dan Webb—the French-inspired Panhard Razor.
Evolution of the Hot Rod Panels: Attend expert panels on the evolution of hot rod designs and automotive careers, hosted by industry leaders like Larry Woods and Dave Marek.
Suede Palace: Experience classic hot rods, customs, and drag cars from the ‘40s to ‘60s, complete with vintage music and costumes.
Pinstriper Charity Auction: Watch talented pinstripers at work and bid on their unique automotive art, with all proceeds benefiting the Gavin R. Stevens Foundation.
On-site parking is $20 per vehicle. For tickets and more information, visit rodshows.com.
Don’t miss out on this landmark event! Whether you’re a lifelong hot rod enthusiast or a first-time attendee, the 75th Annual Grand National Roadster Show is the place to be. From historic vehicles to modern marvels, there’s something for everyone at this automotive celebration of a lifetime.
Should you be in town, come and visit the Classic Industries' booth in Building 4 at the Pomona Fairplex and pick up a free Classic Industries' Parts and Accessories Catalog for your American muscle machine. If you can't make it to the event, you can have CI mail you a catalog.