After a year’s hiatus, the McLaren Vale Vintage & Classic will officially return in 2026 and will celebrate 20 years of showcasing motoring heritage, fine wine, and community spirit, with entries now open.

The popular car parade event will roll through the heart of McLaren Vale on Sunday 12 April, bringing together hundreds of vintage and classic vehicles on the Main Street, along with local wineries, live entertainment, and family fun.

A brand-new, Vintage & Classic charity party will be held at Chalk Hill on the night before the parade on Saturday 11 April, replacing the traditional charity dinner.

Open to the public to enjoy, the charity party will feature live entertainment and a stunning display of cars across the Chalk Hill lawns, creating the perfect atmosphere to kick off the weekend celebrations. 

A $10 entry fee will apply, with proceeds supporting several local charities, while food and drinks will be available to purchase on the night.

Event chairman Nigel Williamson says the milestone year marks the start of a new era for one of South Australia’s most iconic regional events.

“We are thrilled to be bringing back the McLaren Vale Vintage & Classic, ensuring that we are safeguarding this amazing event for generations to come,” he says.

“Our mission is simple – we are passionate volunteers driven to elevate our community by hosting a free event for all ages where the region as a whole benefits.

“McLaren Vale is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Events like this, supported by our amazing volunteers and community groups, help bring people from across the state and country to experience and celebrate everything our region has to offer.”

He says since its inception in 2006 the McLaren Vale Vintage & Classic has drawn thousands of visitors to the region each year, marking it as one of the region’s signature events on the calendar, bringing in people from around South Australia and interstate, especially Victoria, to the heart of McLaren Vale.

More than just a car parade, the McLaren Vale Vintage & Classic is a strong community festival, highlighting the wonders of the region, where both entrants and guests gather after the parade and enjoy the afternoon.

A range of local wineries will once again participate in the event, including:

● Lloyd Brothers

● Kay Brothers

● Hastwell & Lightfoot

● Chalk Hill

● Leconfield

● Shirvington

● Serafino

● Ekhidna kitchen

● Goodison Brewery

● Paxton

Vehicle owners are encouraged to secure their spot early to be part of this milestone event, and can register to be part of the parade via the McLaren Vale Vintage & Classic website.