Mark Your Calendar: The 19th Annual Renaissance Euro Fest Returns to Ridgeland October 2–3, 2026
Mississippi’s Premier European Auto & Motorcycle Show Brings a Governor’s Mansion Parade, America 250 Showcase, Live Music, and a Full Weekend of Free Events to Renaissance at Colony Park RIDGELAND, Miss. — Fall plans just got a lot more interesting. The 19th Annual Renaissance Euro Fest Classic European Automobile & Motorcycle Show returns to Renaissance at Colony Park on October 2–3, 2026, bringing one of the most celebrated free automotive events in the country back to the heart of Mississippi. Named a Top 10 Car Show in America by USA Today in 2025 and nominated again for 2026, Euro Fest is a must-see weekend for car enthusiasts, families, and anyone who loves a great Mississippi experience.
Now in its 19th year, Euro Fest showcases over 1,600 all-European automobiles and motorcycles entered by enthusiasts from twelve Southeastern states, alongside new models from sponsoring dealerships. In 18 years, the show has drawn more than 255,000 attendees, and 15,000 are expected again in 2026. Best of all: admission is completely free for spectators and participants alike.
Friday, October 2: A Parade Fit for the Governor
The weekend begins grandly on Friday morning when a capital police escort leads a convoy of 50–75 European automobiles from Renaissance at Colony Park through Downtown Jackson, down I-55, State Street, and Capitol Street, to park in front of the Governor’s Mansion for a three-hour public display. The Governor’s Choice Award will be presented to an outstanding vehicle, with food vendors and live music on-site. The convoy departs at 11:00 a.m. and returns to Renaissance by 2:30 p.m.
Friday evening, The Cove, the green space at the north end of Renaissance, hosts a free outdoor concert featuring the Johnny Baranco-Fay & Tony Santangelo Combo beginning at 7:00 p.m. Surrounded by some of Ridgeland’s best restaurants, it’s the perfect way to kick off the weekend.
Saturday, October 3: The Main Event
The show opens Saturday at 10:00 a.m. across four city blocks of Renaissance at Colony Park and two adjacent grass areas. Expect a dazzling lineup of Ferraris, Porsches, Lamborghinis, Bentleys, BMWs, Aston Martins, vintage motorcycles, and everything in between, meticulously restored, road-ready, and on display for everyone to enjoy.
New in 2026: The America 250 Showcase
In honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary, Euro Fest introduces a special feature showcase inspired by one of cinema’s greatest automotive rivalries. The “Ford vs. Land Rover” section will bring together new and vintage Fords and Land Rovers alongside America 250 signage and a replica F-40, a celebration of American pride through the lens of European craftsmanship.
Barbeque Shine will be on-site at 11:00 a.m. Class winner ribbons will be presented by 3:00 p.m., with the show wrapping at 4:00 p.m. That evening, a ticketed Awards Presentation Italian Buffet at Taste restaurant begins at 5:00 p.m., with dinner at 7:00 p.m. and the awards ceremony to follow.
Sunday Morning: The Send-Off
The weekend closes Sunday, October 4, from 7:00–9:00 a.m. with the “Sunday Send Off” coffee and beignets served along the main promenade of the Renaissance as participants say farewell to friends and a grand automotive weekend.
Euro Fest is free and open to everyone; no tickets or registration are required for spectators. The event is family-friendly and welcomes leashed dogs. Renaissance at Colony Park offers on-site dining, shopping, and easy access from I-55.
“Ridgeland is the perfect destination for a fall weekend, and Euro Fest is one of the best reasons to come,” said Amelia Dalton, Creative Director of Explore Ridgeland. “With a USA Today Top 10 Car Show right here in our backyard, world-class dining and shopping steps away, and a full weekend of programming, we invite everyone from across the region to make plans now and join us in October.”
Plan Your Visit
Guests are encouraged to book accommodations early and make a full weekend of it in Ridgeland. The Hyatt Hotel is the official headquarters hotel for Euro Fest participants, located steps from the Renaissance. For lodging, dining, and travel information, visit www.exploreridgeland.com.
For show details and vehicle registration, visit www.euro-fest.net.
At a Glance
What: 19th Annual Renaissance Euro Fest Classic European Automobile & Motorcycle Show
When: Friday–Saturday, October 2–3, 2026; Sunday Send-Off October 4, 7:00–9:00 a.m.
Where: Renaissance at Colony Park, Ridgeland, Mississippi
Cost: Free for all spectators and participants
Web: www.euro-fest.net | www.exploreridgeland.com
Note: Pet-friendly (leashed dogs welcome) | Family-friendly
###
About Explore Ridgeland
In Ridgeland, Mississippi, small-town southern charm meets big-city luxury. Just north of the capital and along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway, travelers enjoy world-class cycling trails, “The Rez” for boating and fishing, unique arts, diverse dining, top-tier shopping, and high-end spas. www.exploreridgeland.com