Some of the vehicles in the 2023 Red Hot Car Show are shown. This year’s show is on Saturday, Oct. 12, in downtown Rochester. InkFreeNews photo by Liz Adkins.

By Leah Sander
InkFreeNews

ROCHESTER — The Red Hot Car Show returns Saturday, Oct. 12, to downtown Rochester, and it’s under new leadership this year.

The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce is overseeing the 28th show, taking it over from the Blacktop Cruisers Car Club. It runs the same day as the Chili Cook-Off.

“The Blacktop Cruisers Car Club determined they were no longer able to host the car show, and knowing we already have a team dedicated to hosting the Chili Cook-Off, asked us if we would be willing to host the car show as well,” said Fulton County Chamber Executive Director Jillian Smith. “It was a no-brainer for the Chamber Board of Directors, who acknowledged the popularity of the event and impact the event makes on the Fulton County community.”

“The car club has been great to work with,” she added. “They have shared resources and supplies and their knowledge ensures the car show continues to be successful.”

The car show goes from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Awards will be given out at 4 p.m., including the Best of Show Car/Truck, Best of Show Motorcycle, Mayor’s Choice, Sheriff’s Choice, Fire Chief’s Choice, Police Chief’s Choice and club participation award. First through third place in other categories will also be awarded.

People may register for the show by stopping in at the Chamber office, 112 E. Eighth St., Rochester, by noon Friday, Oct. 11, or by registering the day of the event from 8-11 a.m. The cost is $20, with shirts also available for an additional $20.

Smith said there’s also a swap meet from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Main Street and Fourth Street. Space is limited to the first 40 vendors.

She said the car show is “an excellent complement to the Chili Cook-Off.”

“Between the two events, this is Fulton County’s largest single-day event, drawing more than 8,000 attendees,” said Smith.

She hopes the show means “a good time had by all” for attendees.

“Similar to the Chili Cook-Off, we hope they enjoy the display of cars, music and ambiance of downtown Rochester on a beautiful autumn day,” she said.