There have been some historic Corvettes and Corvette dignitaries who have found their way to the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds as part of Corvettes at Carlisle.  The father of the Corvette, Zora Duntov has graced the grounds, thousands of his Corvette creations have done the same over the years, but for 2025, his first-born, a 1953 C1 (Engineering Car #3950), has been confirmed for the show (August 21-23).

Each year, some 5,000 Corvettes attend Corvettes at Carlisle.  These Corvettes span all eras and generations of production and come from across the country.  Cars and car owners come from far and wide, but never before has one literally served as the springboard for an entire lineage of vehicles thereafter.  This Corvette is considered to be the very first one to ever roll off the Corvette assembly line, but how did it find its way to Carlisle? 

For decades, automotive historians believed the first two production 1953 Corvettes had been destroyed shortly after their manufacture, a narrative long accepted as fact. However, following a dedicated 20-year search by Corvette enthusiasts Corey Peterson and John Amgwert, this long-standing myth has been definitively shattered.

Peterson and Amgwert began their investigation after identifying inconsistencies in the official historical record. Convinced that these early Corvettes may still exist, their research spanned over two decades and multiple states. In 2023, their perseverance culminated in a landmark discovery: a vehicle stored in an Oklahoma restoration shop, initially suspected to be the second Corvette ever built.

Subsequent meticulous research and documentation confirmed something even more extraordinary — the car in question was not the second, but in fact the very first production 1953 Corvette ever assembled. The find instantly rewrote Corvette history, offering new insights into the genesis of America’s iconic sports car.

“We always believed the cars were out there somewhere,” said Corey Peterson. “Confirming that we had located Corvette #3950, the very first production model, is beyond what we could have imagined. We are thrilled to share this incredible discovery with the Corvette community at Carlisle.”

Throughout Corvettes at Carlisle weekend, attendees will have the rare opportunity to view the car up close. In addition, Peterson and Amgwert will be on hand to discuss the details of their discovery, offering presentations and Q&A sessions that chronicle their two-decade search and the research that led to this historic moment.

Don’t miss this unparalleled celebration of America’s Sports Car at Corvettes at Carlisle 2025! It’ll be centrally located for all to review; parked on the stage, adjacent to the Midway and grandstand.  Gates open at 7 AM daily, kids 12 and under are free, plus students and military (with valid in person ID) are eligible for discounted admission too.  Learn more about Corvettes at Carlisle and purchase discounted spectator admissions at CarlisleEvents.com.

In advance of the 2025 Spring Carlisle Collector Car Auction, there was a noticeable level of excitement both in person and on social media due to the quality of consignments confirmed for the event. The thought process going in was that not only would the auction yield some life-altering results for two great organizations, but that there might also be a consignment that could challenge for the top all-time seller spot at Carlisle Auctions.

By the time the final gavel dropped on Friday, April 25, one hope became reality, while another came very close. In the end, Carlisle Auctions sold 50% of all available lots, tallying over $5 million in sales (including fees). Along the way, over $31,000 was raised for charity, and a 1963 Corvette became one of the top-three all-time sales for Carlisle Auctions.

For two days (April 24–25, 2025), plus multiple preview opportunities leading up to it, the Carlisle Expo Center became a mecca for those searching for their first or next classic car. 400+ lots were confirmed, including enough trucks to fill not one, but two themed hours (one each day). In addition, over 100 years of automotive history was on full display — starting with a pair of cars from 1916 and ending with a minibike from 2025. In between, there was literally something for everyone, and just about everyone at the event was able to find what they needed.

Beyond all the action on the block, the auction benefitted charity too. 2025 saw the debut of Fund the Firehouse, along with the Pedal Car Project. Each served two distinct purposes. For Fund the Firehouse, half a dozen donations came in from the Carlisle community, with 100% of the money raised going directly back to Carlisle Fire & Rescue to support their operational costs, including training and equipment. Following their consignments, and combined with donations from auction attendees, $17,500 was raised.

For the Pedal Car Project, SUN Area Technical Institute from New Berlin, PA saw their students’ hard work pay off, netting $13,900 for their automotive technology curriculum. The dollars came by way of pedal cars built, customized, and designed by student groups at the school. Not only did their builds fetch top dollar, but the students also experienced a VIP journey that spanned nearly seven months — from having their builds featured on YouTube, to being displayed at the AACA Museum, Inc. in Hershey, PA, and finally showcased and sold at the auction in Carlisle.

Carlisle Auctions hopes to continue its partnership with SUN Tech, while also working to grow, enhance, and expand the Fund the Firehouse program to include more donations, more first responder organizations, and more auction time dedicated to generating dollars for those who answer the call during times of need.

The top five (5) selling cars totaled nearly $600,180 with Thursday’s top seller being the ’65 Corvette and Friday’s highlight being the ’63 Corvette — now one of the top three all-time sellers for Carlisle Auctions. The top five (5) are as follows:

Top Five Sales:

1. 1963 Corvette – $257,500 (F532.1)
2. 1969 Dodge Charger – $89,960 (F491.1)
3. 1969 Camaro – $88,560 (F489.1)
4. 1965 Corvette – $87,480 (T212.1)
5. 1968 Ford Mustang GT – $76,680 (F506.1)

[Click here for full results] – all totals include buyer’s premium

“The 2025 Spring Carlisle Collector Car Auction was a great way to start our PA-based auction schedule,” said Tony Cline, Director of Auction Operations. “The new start time of 10 AM was a real winner for all involved and it’s something we plan to continue moving forward,” added Cline. “Our team looks forward to our upcoming Fall Carlisle Collector Car Auction, Thursday and Friday, October 2–3 at the Carlisle PA Expo Center. Call us at 717-960-6400 or visit CarlisleAuctions.com to learn more.”

Spring Carlisle driven by Hemmings.com, has come and gone, taking place April 23-27 at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds.  This year’s offering marked another historic chapter for the long-standing season-opening event in Carlisle.  As has been the case since 1977, Spring Carlisle brought together thousands of automotive enthusiasts from around the world for a week filled with buying, selling, trading, and celebrating everything automotive. Spring Carlisle not only lived up to expectations but delivered countless smiles, friendships, and camaraderie that can’t be matched by any online shopping experience.

Backed by great weather throughout a majority of the event, gates opened at 7 AM daily and from the start on Wednesday, as the day progressed, the crowds continued to grow, with more and more guests filling the grounds. By Thursday, excitement reached a new level with the start of the two-day classic and collector car auction powered by Carlisle Auctions. Over 400 lots were up for bid, and with strong participation from both buyers and sellers, the auction contributed significantly to the overall energy of the event. Carlisle Auctions concluded the event with over 50% of all vehicles sold and more than $5 million in sales, including a 1963 Corvette, which sold for $257,500.

The car corral, flea market, and Manufacturers Midway were in full swing throughout the weekend, drawing in crowds eager to shop, discover, and find the perfect parts, memorabilia, or classic cars. Automotive flea market vendors continued to bring the goods, with many offering a vast selection of automotive parts and collectibles. Meanwhile, the car corral saw classic and collector cars finding new homes at a record pace.

In addition to the buying and selling, several displays and showcases highlighted the best of the automotive world. The ARMO Hot Products Showcase, located near the stage, featured the latest products from the industry’s biggest names, giving guests a firsthand look at new innovations that can enhance their rides. The AACA Car Club returned to the stage, displaying vintage and classic cars, soliciting memberships, and promoting their upcoming fall meet in Hershey.

Spring Carlisle also welcomed back representatives from local Lions Clubs. This year, they returned to solicit donations benefiting their Lions International Disaster Relief Fund. With generous support from attendees, the Lions raised just over $2,000 to assist those in need.

With Spring Carlisle 2025 now in the books, Carlisle Events is already looking forward to upcoming events in 2025, including the Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals car show (May 16-17). The next Spring Carlisle offering is scheduled for April 22-26, 2026, with the auction happening April 23-24. Details on all upcoming events, as well as the ability to purchase spectator tickets in advance, are available at CarlisleEvents.com.

The Carlisle Events season schedule offers a variety of automotive fun for enthusiasts of all backgrounds and interests. Each event also offers a variety of activities and entertainment, including the upcoming Carlisle Brew Mixer, taking place as part of the Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals car show (May 16–17).

The Third Annual Brew Mixer is on Saturday, May 17, and runs from 11 AM to 5 PM at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds. This year’s mixer has nearly double the number of offerings from last year, welcoming at least eight different central PA establishments, plus live music.  Access to the Brew Mixer is limited to guests ages 21+.

Located behind the grandstand near the food court—an easy-to-find, central location that connects attendees to both food and flavor—the Brew Mixer welcomes Rusty Rail Brewing Company (Mifflinburg, PA), Gearhouse Brewing Company (Chambersburg, PA), Wolf Brewing Company (Mechanicsburg, PA), Boneshire Brew Works (Harrisburg, PA), Back Porch Brewing and Desperate Times Brewing (both of Carlisle, PA), Liquid Noise Brewing (Marysville, PA), and Big Hill Cider Works (Gardners, PA).

Music lovers will enjoy performances from a trio of acts, two of which will be playing within the Brew Mixer tent, while the other plays the grandstand stage. Carlisle-based Soup Kitchen brings an eclectic seven-piece Rock ’n’ Roll vibe with a repertoire full of familiar favorites and unique arrangements to the grandstand stage, while Harrisburg’s Matt Jameson Live! and Colin & Dave will each play acoustic sets within the Brew Mixer tent.

Each brewery will manage its own offerings, serving up full pours at reasonable prices and offering merchandise unique to their brand. Live music kicks off at 11 AM with multiple sets throughout the mixer until its conclusion at 5 PM.

Admission to the Brew Mixer is included as part of the car show, and it doesn’t matter if you're coming just for the drinks and tunes or the full car show experience. Parking is available onsite for $10. Spectator admission is $12 at the gate (with discounts online). A $5 military discount is also available for in-person purchase only (with valid ID). Please note that Brew Mixer participants must be 21 or older, and IDs will be checked at the entrance with wristbands provided for eligible guests.

Beyond the excitement and fun of the Brew Mixer is the car show, which offers an incredible diversity of automotive excellence. Each year, vehicles from around the globe roll into Carlisle, proudly showcased by enthusiastic owners and car clubs who gather to share their passion and enjoy the experience. Beyond the cars and track excitement, the event is packed with social opportunities too—like club gatherings and the ever-popular passport program for all ages.

Gates open at 7 AM daily for the car show.  Discounted spectator admission tickets, full event information, details on the mixer, and more are available now at CarlisleEvents.com or by calling 717-243-7855.

The 2025 Carlisle GM Nationals are just over two months from today, happening June 20-21 at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds.  With a diverse mix of cars on the National Parts Depot Showfield and a fresh mix of special displays for 2025, there’s no reason not to be part of the fun.  In fact, if those two reasons aren’t enough, here’s another – a DISCOUNT on Showfield registration that’s greater than the current available options AND a 50% discount on select spectator admission tickets too.

That’s right, in honor of April 9, or 409 in this case, a fresh FLASH SALE will be active for one week; April 9 through April 16.  The offer is for those who have yet to register and are interested in being part of the National Parts Depot Showfield.  The price point is just $40.09; a nearly 20% savings off the current price of $50.  In addition to the Showfield savings, a spectator ticket with parking package is also available for just $9 (normally $18).  This sale also falls within the current pre-registration/Gate-N-Go window, so anyone who pre-registers during the sale (4/09-4/16) and/or prior to May 6 Gate-N-Go deadline, will see your pass mailed weeks in advance of the show.  This saves you money now, and time later; allowing for more of both to best enjoy the Carlisle GM Nationals.

The 4-09 Flash Sale isn’t just a nod to the Beach Boys' classic 1962 song of the same name—it’s a tribute to the legendary 409 engine itself. Back in 1961, when Zora Arkus-Duntov was pushing the limits of Chevy performance, the 409 made its debut. His team’s relentless testing led to larger valves for better airflow, along with key modifications to the bore, stroke, intake, and exhaust valves. The result? A compression ratio that delivered serious muscle, with the 409 pumping out 360 horsepower—a true powerhouse in Chevrolet’s history.

Buying into the 2025 Carlisle GM Nationals means being part of an event that showcases 70 Years of the Tri-Five, 55 Years of the Monte Carlo, 40 Years of the IROC-Z, the Solid Lifter Showroom, 3^rd Gen Nationals, Nova Nationals, T-Bodies at Carlisle, and Radlisle; an 80s and 90s themed Friday night party with music, cars, and a movie.  Plus, there are great activities like Nitrofest with NHRA Drag Racing legend Bruce Larson, autocross, drifting, seminars, and so much more.

Gates open at 7 AM both days of the show, with vendor and Showfield registration available through the event.  Spectator admission tickets are available at the gate, but discounted if purchased online.  Visit CarlisleEvents.com or call 717-243-7855 to learn more about the Carlisle GM Nationals and all that’s happening this summer’s big GM showcase.