Kars on King brings back the muscle to downtown Oshawa

The muscle is back August 23 for the return of Kars on King, with hundreds of classic vehicles lining downtown Oshawa streets for the ultimate (and free) car lover’s dream.

The City of Oshawa hosts Kars on King, a downtown event featuring vehicles from century-old McLaughlin Buicks and 40s coupes to ’69 Chevelles and 80s muscle.

The event is extra special this year as Oshawa is celebrating its 100th anniversary as a city and Oshawa-made cars and trucks will be sporting special identifications to display in their vehicles.

Kars on King will have something for everyone, with classic cars to admire and activities for the whole family to enjoy from 3:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., including:

• live entertainment on the Main Stage at the four corners at King Street and Simcoe Street (with opening ceremonies at 5 p.m.)
• children’s entertainers, crafts, animal exhibits and more at Memorial Park
• community displays
• strolling buskers
• a variety of culinary choices from downtown Oshawa restaurants

“We are pleased to welcome back Kars on King, an award-winning event that celebrates the great city of Oshawa’s rich automotive heritage and strong community spirit,” said Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter. “Join us on August 23 when the streets of downtown Oshawa come alive with hundreds of classic and unique vehicles. This is an evening of free, family fun that you won’t want to miss.”

Kars on King. Photo Diane Warner

The City is partnering with the Canadian Automotive Museum, Tribute Communities Centre and Oshawa Tourism to put on the event and each partner organization has something special planned:

• The Tribute Centrewill welcome back its 10th annual Touch-a-Truck event (presented by Oshawa Power) that takes place outside the venue from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. during Kars on King. This free, hands-on event allows children of all ages to get up close and personal with more than 45 vehicles of all shapes and sizes. Children will love the interactive displays and the chance to learn about the vehicles from the drivers.
• The Auto Museumwill be offering admission by donation from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The museum is home to the world’s most significant collection of Canadian automotive history.
• The Oshawa Tourism booth is where visitors will discover the city’s hidden gems steeped in automotive history and rich culture. The team will also be on-site to share must-visit attractions, top notch dining recommendations, and other great places to visit.

“You don’t need to be a car aficionado to enjoy Kars on King in Downtown Oshawa this summer,” said Councillor Bob Chapman “From classic car and unique vehicle displays to live entertainment and local vendors – there’s truly something for everyone and it’s all free.”

(The event has traditionally led into Autofest and does again in 2024, though that show moved to Elgin Park in Uxbridge last year.)

Visitors at Kars on King are encouraged to share event photos by tagging @CityofOshawa on Instagram and @OshawaCity on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, using the hashtags #OshEvents and #KarsonKing for a chance to win prizes.

For more information, visit Oshawa.ca/KarsonKing, email [email protected] or call (905) 436-3311.

“Kars on King is one of Canada’s most anticipated summer events, attracting thousands of automotive enthusiasts and visitors,” said Councillor Tito-Dante Marimpietri, who chairs the Economic and Development Services Committee. “This year’s festival will once again transform downtown Oshawa streets into a vibrant display of classic cars, live entertainment, and activities for all generations.”

For the latest updates on the Centennial celebrations, visit Oshawa.ca/100 or email [email protected].