Back to School Backpack Drive Car Show | 2026 | Wilmington, CA
Back to School Backpack Drive and Car Show is bringing a purpose-driven kind of car-show energy, with school supplies, chrome, and Harbor Area community spirit all tied together.
This one has that classic benefit-show feel where the vehicles bring people in, but the cause gives the day its heart. Spectators get free entrance, while car, truck, and motorcycle participants can enter by bringing a backpack filled with school supplies or paying a $20 entry fee, with backpacks preferred. That setup should bring out a good local mix, from classic cars and lowriders to custom trucks, motorcycles, cruisers, and clean street builds that fit a community-centered Southern California car show.
Organized by USO Car Club Harbor Area, the event is scheduled for Saturday, July 11, 2026, with roll-in from 7 am to 10 am and showtime from 11 am to 3 pm. The back-to-school supply drive angle keeps the focus practical and local, supporting students while still giving enthusiasts a real reason to gather. It is not trying to be overly complicated; the idea is simple, useful, and easy for the car community to get behind.
Happening at the Phillips 66 Los Angeles Refinery parking lot in Wilmington, Los Angeles County, the setting gives the show a gritty industrial backdrop that fits the flyer’s old-school gas-and-steel attitude. Expect the lineup to carry plenty of Harbor Area flavor, with classics, bombs, lowriders, trucks, motorcycles, and other custom rides likely filling the lot. For anyone who enjoys community car shows with a little working-city edge, this one has a natural Wilmington feel.
Bring school supplies if you are entering a ride, or come through as a spectator and take in the lineup. Back to School Backpack Drive and Car Show feels like the kind of event where the cars draw the crowd, but the backpacks may end up being the most important thing that leaves the lot.
Back to School Backpack Drive Car Show - Los Angeles County, California
Date: Saturday, July 11th, 2026
Location: Phillips 66 Los Angeles Refinery, 1660 W Anaheim St, Wilmington, CA 90744
Starts: 11:00 AM
Ends: 3:00 PM
Admission: Free
Vehicle Registration: HERE
*Please note: iDriveSoCal is not hosting this car show. To learn more contact Back to School Backpack Drive Car Show organizers HERE. Including details about attending and displaying your car. Also about becoming a car meet vendor or sponsor.
Additionally, for more of the best Southern California automotive events click HERE.
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