Car lovers, mark your calendars! One of Lewis County’s biggest automotive events is returning to Chehalis this September. The 10th Annual Rust or Shine Car Show rolls into the Veterans Memorial Museum on Sunday, September 6, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The milestone event brings together automotive enthusiasts from throughout the region for a day filled with incredible vehicles, live music, food, fun and community—all while supporting the Veterans Memorial Museum.
If It Rolls, Bring It!
The name says it all: at Rust or Shine, a vehicle doesn’t have to be perfectly polished to be appreciated. Visitors can expect to see an eclectic mix of hot rods, muscle cars, classics, street rods, rat rods, motorcycles, rust buckets, and custom vehicles filling the grounds surrounding the museum.
That variety is part of what makes this show so much fun. You might find a beautifully restored classic sitting alongside a well-loved ride proudly displaying decades of patina. Take your time wandering the rows, admiring the craftsmanship, discovering unique details and talking with the people behind the vehicles. Rust or Shine has grown into one of the area’s largest car shows and has drawn hundreds of vehicles in previous years.
More Than a Car Show
There’s plenty happening beyond the cars. The event features live music, food vendors, raffles and games, creating a festive atmosphere for longtime car enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. It’s also a chance to reconnect with old friends, meet fellow car enthusiasts and simply enjoy a late-summer day in Chehalis. Families are welcome, too, making Rust or Shine an easy addition to a Labor Day weekend adventure.
Supporting the Veterans Memorial Museum
At the heart of Rust or Shine is an important purpose. The event is a fundraiser for the Veterans Memorial Museum, helping support an organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of America’s veterans. The museum describes its year-round events as part of its work supporting the community and showing appreciation for veterans.
While you’re at the show, make time to step inside the museum. Its extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits helps visitors connect with military history through the experiences of the men and women who served. Supporting Rust or Shine means enjoying a great community event while also helping the museum continue its work for years to come.
Make a Day of It in Chehalis
After you’ve explored the show, keep the fun going and make a day of your visit to Chehalis. Grab lunch at a local restaurant, explore historic downtown, browse locally owned shops or check out another nearby attraction.
Come admire the cars, enjoy the festivities, and support the Veterans Memorial Museum at one of Chehalis’ favorite community events! Find more information on their Facebook event page.