Pomona Swap Meet Celebrates 50 Years Showcasing Classic Cars

The Pomona Swap Meet and Classic Car Show, a longstanding tradition in Pomona, California, is marking its 50th year at the Pomona Fairplex. This event, which began in 1975, has evolved into the largest automotive swap meet and classic car show on the West Coast. With seven annual occurrences, it has showcased a multitude of vehicles over the years, attracting car enthusiasts and families alike.

From antique cars dating back to the early 1900s to hot rods from the mid-20th century, the event features a diverse array of classic models spanning various eras. Visitors can admire iconic Volkswagen buses from the ’60s and ’70s alongside modern sports cars like Camaros, Challengers, Corvettes, Porsches, and Mustangs. The event’s appeal extends to both seasoned collectors and casual enthusiasts, fostering a sense of nostalgia and passion for vintage automobiles.

For many attendees like Heidy Garcia, a longtime visitor to the swap meet, this event holds sentimental value, representing a cherished tradition passed down through generations. Families gather to bond over their shared love for classic cars, creating lasting memories and strengthening their connection to automotive heritage. Richard Muñoz, who showcased his 1959 Chevy Bel Air at the event, highlighted the familial aspect of the swap meet, emphasizing the continuity of a passion for classic cars within his family.

Among the thousands of vehicles on display, some are available for purchase, while others are showcased purely for admiration. Vendors offer rare car parts and accessories for enthusiasts looking to restore or customize their own vehicles. Attendees like Danny Morelos, the owner of a 1939 Chevy Master Deluxe, advise potential buyers to opt for pre-restored vehicles to save time and money, underscoring the practical considerations involved in classic car ownership.

Beyond the realm of seasoned collectors, the Pomona Swap Meet and Car Show also attracts a diverse audience, including students and aspiring photographers seeking unique experiences. Moises Alvarez Sevilla, a graduate student and photographer, finds solace in capturing the beauty of classic cars through his lens, reflecting the event’s broader cultural significance and appeal to creative individuals.

Scheduled to take place multiple times throughout the year, the Pomona Swap Meet and Classic Car Show offers a recurring opportunity for car enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a vibrant automotive community. With each event bringing together a diverse array of vehicles and enthusiasts, this longstanding tradition continues to thrive, serving as a hub for celebrating automotive history and passion.