Goodguys brings 28th Colorado Nationals to Loveland Sept. 11-13

Goodguys Rod & Custom Association will host more than 2,000 classic cars and trick trucks at the 28th Griot’s Garage Colorado Nationals at the Ranch Events Complex in Loveland, just north of Denver. The three-day event adds autocross, dragster exhibitions, family activities and Sunday competition for newer American-made or powered vehicles.

Why it matters: - The Colorado Nationals is one of Goodguys Rod & Custom Association’s biggest regional events, drawing thousands of vehicles and enthusiasts to northern Colorado. - The show also gives builders and owners a chance to compete for national award positions and regional honors. - The event extends participation to newer American-made or powered vehicles on Sunday, broadening the audience beyond traditional classic car owners.

What happened: - Goodguys Rod & Custom Association announced the 28th Griot’s Garage Colorado Nationals for Sept. 11-13 at the Ranch Events Complex in Loveland, Colorado. - The event is expected to welcome more than 2,000 classic cars and trick trucks. - The venue is the newly renovated Ranch Events Complex, just north of Denver. - Vehicles built in and before 1999 can enter on Friday. - The event includes vintage street rods, muscle cars, customs and pro-touring street machines.

The details: - Saturday competition includes regional Finalist positions in the Goodguys Top 12 of the Year Awards presented by Surventis. - Award categories include the Snap-on Muscle Car, LMC Truck (Early) and Griot’s Garage Muscle Machine honors. - More than 70 additional awards are available. - Ron Jones of Ron Jones Garage will select the Builders Choice Top 10. - The Auto World Family Fun Zone includes games, crafts, a free Model Car Take-and-Make and a model car display. - The swap meet will offer parts and collectibles. - The Cars 4-Sale Corral gives attendees a chance to buy a project vehicle. - Nitro Thunderfest exhibition dragsters will run during the weekend. - Goodguys Autocross runs all three days, with drivers competing for Saturday afternoon’s Western States Shootout. - Meguiar’s All American Sunday will feature an All American Shootout for American-made or powered vehicles of all years. - Newer Mustang, Corvette and Challenger owners are encouraged to participate on Sunday. - Event hours are Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Ticket information is available at more event information, at the gate or online. - The event address is 5280 Arena Circle, Loveland, CO 80538.

Between the lines: - Goodguys is using the Colorado stop to combine show cars, competition, shopping and family activities into one weekend format. - The Sunday programming appears designed to pull in owners of newer performance cars who may not typically attend a traditional hot rod show. - The award structure suggests the event remains a qualifying stop with broader national significance for participants.

What's next: - Goodguys will host the event Sept. 11-13 and stage competition across the weekend. - Attendees can register a vehicle, buy tickets online or purchase at the gate. - Media requests go through Goodguys Rod & Custom Association.