Cruise, BBQ & Blues Festival
Saturday, February 7, 2026
This winter, the Cruise, BBQ & Blues Car Show roars back into Oro Valley with a day built for enthusiasts, families, and anyone who loves the spark of creativity. More than a car show, this festival is an epic mashup of craftsmanship, food, and music. Over 200 classic and custom cars will line the streets, each a rolling masterpiece of design and engineering. From vintage favorites polished to perfection to one-of-a-kind builds that push the limits of imagination, every vehicle tells a story of passion and ingenuity. With more than 30 award classes—including Best Paint, Best Engine, and People’s Choice—you’ll see the artistry of the automobile celebrated in full throttle.
And when it comes to flavor, the Tucson Foodie BBQ Competition raises the stakes. Local pitmasters and culinary trailblazers will fire up their smokers, battling it out for top honors while serving mouthwatering plates to the crowd. From smoky brisket and fall-off-the-bone ribs to bold sauces and inventive sides, the competition is fierce—and delicious. Paired with live blues music filling the desert air, it’s a festival that excites every sense.
At Art State Arizona, we believe art lives everywhere—on the canvas, in the garage, in the kitchen, and on the stage. This festival celebrates that vision, showing how creativity drives community and culture forward. Every detail, from custom interiors to BBQ smoke, tells a story of ingenuity and connection. Admission is just $5 (free for kids 10 and under), making this a day of high-octane fun that welcomes everyone.
Dates, Times & Tickets
Saturday, February 7, 2026 | 10 AM - 3 PM
Tickets
Admission is just $5 per person, available at the door. Active duty military, first responders, police, and veterans receive $1 off with valid ID. Your ticket includes full access to the festival—live blues music, family activities, the Tucson Foodie BBQ Competition, and more than 200 classic and custom cars on display. Every ticket holder also gets the chance to cast a vote in the People’s Choice Award for their favorite ride.
Location & Parking
Oro Valley Marketplace
Oro Valley Marketplace
12155 North Oracle Road, Oro Valley, AZ 85737
SW corner of Oracle and Tangerine Road
Oro Valley Marketplace is your go-to for a full-day experience: shop, dine, catch a movie, listen to live music—all against the backdrop of Oro Valley’s beautiful mountain views. Whether you’re planning a laid-back outing or looking for a community event, this is the spot.
The festival is located off of Oracle Road, in the Oro Valley Marketplace between Fork and Fire and the former Red Lobster onsite.
Parking is free throughout the shopping center. Oro Valley Marketplace offers around 4,300 regular car parking spaces plus additional ADA and motorcycle spots.
Sponsors
Classic Cars Participants
2026 Car Show Winners
British, European & Specialty
British Made Cars: Greg Patjens – 1959 MG MGA
German Made Cars: Steve Ignat – 1965 Porsche 356C Cabriolet
Italian Made Cars: Louis Peressini – 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider
Foreign / Sport (Through 1979): Thomas Verrier – 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO
Foreign / Sport (1980–1999): Tyler Butler – 1981 DeLorean DMC-12
Cobras and Vipers: Ralph Mailloux – 1965 Ford Cobra
Kit Car: Richard Bonner – 1965 Ford Cobra
Camaro Classes
Camaro (1967–1981): Mike Solinski – 1969 Chevrolet Z/28 Camaro
Camaro (1982–Present): Dave Barlow – 2023 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible
Corvette Classes
Corvettes C-1 through C-3: Mike Kelly – 1964 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe
Corvettes C-4 through C-8: Garry Liddell – 2022 Chevrolet Corvette 3LT HTC
Corvettes Modified: Terry Moore – 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible
Cars – Modified
Cars Modified (1949–1959): John Beckman – 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air
Cars Modified (1960–1969): Kevin Mayhew – 1963 Ford Falcon Sprint
Cars Modified (1970–1979): Rod Erickson – 1972 Chevrolet Camaro
Cars Modified (1980–1989): Theo Hernandez – 1986 Buick Regal Grand National
Cars – Stock
Cars Stock (1937–1948): Paul Everett – 1938 Dodge D8
Cars Stock (1949–1959): Roy Ireland – 1956 Ford Country Sedan
Cars Stock (1965–1969): Kenneth See – 1969 Ford Mach 1 Cobra Jet
Cars Stock (1970–1979): Gregory Bell – 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS
Chevy & Mustang Classes
Chevys 1955, 1956, 1957: Scott Beach – 1955 Chevrolet 210
Mustangs Through 1973: Antonio Apodaca – 1965 Ford Mustang Fastback
Street Rods
Street Rods Closed Through 1936: James Levi – 1934 Ford 3-Window Coupe
Street Rods Open & T-Buckets Through 1936: Nickey Johnson – 1931 Austin Bantam
Street Rods (1937–1948): Henry Maddux – 1937 Ford Slantback
Trucks
Trucks Modified Through 1954: Michael McQueen – 1937 Diamond T 80 D ¾-Ton Pickup
Trucks Modified (1955–1979): Danny & Maria Quihuis – 1956 Ford F-100
Trucks Stock Through 1954: Ray Paradis – 1947 Willys CJ-2A
Trucks Stock (1955–1979): John Vermette – 1955 Chevrolet 3100
Vintage & Modern
Vintage Vehicles Stock Through 1936: Roger & Betty Benasutti – 1931 Ford Model A
Modern (1990–Present): Jay Cillitto – 2003 Ford Lightning
Special Awards
Best Interior: Peter Romeo – 1966 Pontiac GTO
Best Exterior: Mike Baroni – 1930 Ford Roadster
Best Presentation: Angela Keeland – 1955 Chevy Bel Air
Best Engine: Daniel Cordova – 1956 Ford F-100
Best in Show: Sam Goldsmith – 1949 Chevrolet 3100
People’s Choice Awards
People’s Choice – 1st Place: Lee Abrahams – 1954 Kaiser Darrin
People’s Choice – 2nd Place (Runner-Up): Louis Peressini – 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider
Classic Cars & Registration
Classic Car Registration Opens October 1, 2025
Be part of the show and showcase your pride and joy alongside more than 200 classic and custom cars. Registration not only secures your spot in this year’s Cruise, BBQ & Blues Car Show, but also comes with a package of perks designed to make your experience unforgettable—from exclusive commemorative items to raffle entries, morning hospitality, and eligibility for one-of-a-kind artist-made awards.
Registration Includes:
- Admission lanyards for 2 adults for full festival access.
- Coffee and morning snacks to kick off the day, plus complimentary bottled water throughout the event.
- 5 free raffle tickets for a chance to win over $2,000 in prizes.
- Commemorative dash plaque celebrating your participation.
- One limited-edition Cruise, BBQ & Blues T-shirt (additional shirts available for $15 each).
- Reserved outdoor parking in the designated exhibitor lot at Oro Valley Marketplace (between Red Lobster and Fork & Fire).
- Eligibility for artist-made trophies and awards across all judged categories.
Important Details:
- Exhibitors must provide their own chairs, tables, and display needs.
- Sales or business transactions are not permitted from exhibitor spaces (a “For Sale” sign may be displayed on your vehicle).
- All cars must be on-site by 9:15 a.m. the morning of the show. Vehicles may not leave until after the festival ends at 3:00 p.m.
- No day-of-event registrations will be accepted.
- Registration is refundable if cancellation is received 14 days before the show (January 26, 2026). No refunds after this date.
Registration Fees:
Early Bird (through December 31, 2025):
Pavement Parking – $45
Dirt Parking – $30
Standard Pricing (January 1 – January 26, 2026):
Pavement Parking – $55
Dirt Parking – $40
Each registration includes:
(1) Official T-shirt, (2) Adult Lanyards & Admission, (5) Raffle Tickets, (1) Commemorative Dash Plaque
Artisans & Exhibitors
More than just a classic car show
Beyond the cars, the festival spotlights artisans and exhibitors who bring craftsmanship to life in new forms. From fine art and jewelry to automotive-inspired crafts and local makers, every booth offers something unique to discover and take home.
Interested in Exhibiting? Contact Amanda@artstateaz.org
Showcase your creativity at one of Southern Arizona’s most vibrant fall celebrations. The Festival welcomes visual artists and exhibitors working in all mediums—from painting, sculpture, and photography to jewelry, ceramics, and wearable art. This juried, two-day outdoor festival draws thousands of attendees eager to discover and purchase unique, handcrafted works while enjoying live music, regional cuisine, and Arizona wines. As an artist or exhibitor, you’ll connect directly with enthusiastic buyers, gain exposure in a dynamic marketplace, and be part of a signature event that celebrates art, flavor, and community.
Live Blues Music
Blues Ignite the Soul
The heart of the festival beats on the main stage, where the power of the blues comes alive. Throughout the day, three dynamic bands will keep the energy high with sets that blend soulful tradition and electrifying modern sound. From raw Delta-inspired riffs to gritty rock-infused grooves, the lineup features nationally recognized blues and rock bands alongside local talent, creating an unforgettable soundtrack to the day.
The music isn’t just background—it’s the pulse of the festival. Each performance invites the crowd to dance, sway, and lose themselves in the rhythm, while perfectly complementing the smell of barbecue in the air and the shine of polished chrome on display. Whether you’re a lifelong blues fan or discovering the genre for the first time, the stage promises a soulful, high-octane experience that ties the entire festival together.
10 AM - 11 AM: Garrett James & the Wanderers
Garrett James and The Wanderers are a young blues-rock band that blends the soulful grit of classic Vinyl-Era blues with the raw energy of Cassette-Era rock 'n' roll. The band's music is an influential combination of bluesy licks, stirring riffs, and heart-inspiring lyrics that resonate with the dedicated passion of years gone by. The sincere goal of the band is to forge their creative mark and share the love of music with the younger generations that follow.
11:30 AM - 12:45 PM: Jimi Primetime Smith & Bob Corritore Duo
Multiple award-winning blues harmonica veteran Bob Corritore and guitarist/vocalist Jimi “Primetime” Smith have forged a powerful partnership rooted in traditional Chicago blues. Their recordings blend Corritore’s fiery harp with Smith’s soulful grit, honoring the genre’s legacy with authenticity and heart. Together, they deliver timeless blues steeped in deep musical friendship and respect.
1:15 PM - 2:30 PM: The Xcelerators
Based in Tucson, this powerhouse blues ensemble unites seasoned musicians from across the U.S., combining over 250 years of collective experience. With roots in multiple genres, they deliver what they call “Gritty, Sophisticated, Blues.” The group features Tom Albanese (harmonica), Jimmy Crimmins (guitar), Thomas DeGasperis (bass), Larry Lieberum (keyboards), and Les Merrihew (drums).
Family Friendly Arts Activities
Family Friendly Art Activities
The festival is designed with families in mind. Kids can explore interactive art zones, enjoy hands-on activities, and take part in community-friendly workshops while parents soak in the cars and music. With free admission for children 10 and under, the Cruise, BBQ & Blues Car Show is a day where all generations can connect, discover, and celebrate creativity together.
Tucson Foodie Culinary Vendors & BBQ Competition
A BBQ Competition for Everyone
2026 BBQ Competition Winners
BBQ – 1st Place (Classic / Traditional Styles): Greater Faith Word Church International
BBQ – 1st Place (Open Category): Good Eats Catering
BBQ – People’s Choice (1st Place): Fork & Fire
BBQ – People’s Choice (2nd Place): Bashful Bandit
The Tucson Foodie BBQ Competition fires up the festival with some of the region’s best pitmasters, chefs, and culinary innovators going head-to-head for top honors. Attendees can taste their way through a mouthwatering lineup of smoky brisket, tender pulled pork, fall-off-the-bone ribs, juicy chicken, and bold regional styles that highlight the diversity of barbecue culture. From tangy Carolina sauces to rich Texas rubs and even global twists like Korean BBQ, every bite is a chance to explore flavor, tradition, and creativity.
But the food doesn’t stop there—festival-goers can also enjoy an array of delicious options beyond the competition. Cold beer will be available for purchase to pair with your BBQ plate, while sweet and savory treats like fresh kettle corn, hand-scooped ice cream, and other local favorites round out the menu. Whether you’re a hardcore BBQ enthusiast or just here to enjoy a great meal under the Arizona sun, the festival’s food offerings promise to satisfy every craving.
The Smokin’ Butcher
Classic, no-nonsense BBQ from a mobile smoker, focusing on time-honored techniques and bold flavors.
Greater Faith Word Church International
Traditional BBQ.
A crowd-pleasing menu anchored by pulled pork, wings, burgers, and their signature “Mac Stack”—homemade mac and cheese piled high with pulled pork and BBQ sauce.
Offering a mac & pulled pork bowl ($14), pulled pork sandwich ($11), wing combo with choice of side ($14), cheeseburger ($8), hamburger ($7), and hot dog ($4). More information at www.greaterfaithwordchurch.com
Good Eats Catering
Traditional BBQ.
Known for rich, slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, and crowd-favorite BBQ “sundaes” layered with baked beans, potato salad, and slaw.
Plates include a BBQ rib plate with two bones and two sides ($18) and a pulled pork plate with two sides ($18). Ribs without sides are available for $13 (two bones) or $8 (one bone). BBQ rib and pulled pork sundaes are offered in small ($8), large ($12), and XL ($20) sizes. Nacho options include chips with cheese and jalapeños ($6), pulled pork nachos ($12), and rib meat nachos ($12). Sides such as baked beans, coleslaw, and cowboy caviar are $5. Drinks include water, Coke, and Fanta ($2). Featured items include the rib meat sundae and pulled pork plate.
Dante’s Kitchen & Cocktails
Korean and Global BBQ.
Korean-inspired BBQ featuring smoked pork belly and mint gochujang lamb shoulder, layered with cucumber, nuoc cham, and house sauces that bridge global flavors and classic smoke.
Menu features a smoked pork belly sandwich ($12), smoked lamb shoulder sandwich ($16), and a Korean BBQ plate with two sides ($18). Sides include cucumber salad, bok choy kimchi, and noodle salad ($4 each). Soda and water are $3. More at www.dantesfireaz.com
Featured item: pork belly and lamb shoulder sampler.
GAP Ministries
Creative & Fusion.
Creative fusion concepts including mesquite-smoked birria brisket nachos and unexpected desserts like chocolate bread pudding with smoked whipped cream.
Serving smoked chicken nachos ($9), with mesquite-smoked birria brisket nachos and chocolate bread pudding planned. Find them on Facebook at GAP Ministries.
Fork & Fire
Traditional BBQ.
A focused, craveable approach with standout BBQ burnt ends—simple, smoky, and built for big flavor.
Offering BBQ burnt ends for $5. More information at http://www.forknfire.com
Bashful Bandit Barbecue
Regional BBQ.
Regional BBQ with a Southwest twist—think prickly pear ribs, smoked mole chicken, chile relleno sausages, and inventive pitmaster sides.
Menu includes chile relleno sausage ($7 per link), sliced brisket ($34 per pound), prickly pear ribs ($4.50 per bone), smoked mole chicken ($16 per pound), mac & cheese ($4), and dill potato salad ($4). Prickly pear ribs and smoked mole chicken selections may vary. Visit bashfulbanditbbq.com for details.
Gila Hogs BBQ
Traditional BBQ.
Specializing in brisket and pork belly burnt ends, plus sliders and smoked jackfruit options for plant-based eaters.
Serving brisket burnt ends with a side ($10), pork belly burnt ends with a side ($10), and pulled pork sliders ($5). Featured items include brisket and pork belly burnt ends. Find them on Facebook at @gilahogsbbq.
23 Spices
Creative & Fusion. Main dishes include ham platters or sandwiches ($20) and chicken wing platters or sandwiches ($19). Sides include Dr Pepper mashed potatoes ($7), Texas street corn ($10), chips and queso ($12), baked beans ($7), and chips ($2). Desserts are $5, standard drinks are $2, and specialty drinks range from $4–$6. Featured items include the Dr Pepper ham sandwich and Dr Pepper chicken wings. More at http://www.linktr.ee/23spices
Participate as an Artist or Exhibitor at the Festival
The Cruise, BBQ & Blues Event features dedicated exhibitor and artist spaces designed to showcase creativity, craftsmanship, and community. Exhibitors will present a variety of goods, art, and services in an engaging, walkable layout that encourages connection and discovery. Artist spaces highlight local and regional talent, offering a platform for painters, makers, and creatives to share their work with a lively, diverse audience. Together, these spaces add depth to the event experience, blending art, culture, and commerce alongside great food, music, and classic cars.
Volunteer
Volunteer with us and be part of the excitement at the Festival! From welcoming guests and supporting artists to helping the event run smoothly behind the scenes, there’s a role for everyone. Opportunities include artist relief, artist hospitality, beer sales support, information booth and festival ambassador roles, and event setup and breakdown. Volunteer shifts will be posted and available for sign-up beginning 30 days prior to the event—join us in creating an unforgettable celebration of art, flavor, and community.
Sponsor the Event
Support the Cause
Sponsorship of the Cruise, BBQ & Blues Car Show goes far beyond branding—it fuels Art State Arizona’s mission to make the arts essential to everyday life. By supporting this event, sponsors align their business with creativity, innovation, and community pride. The benefits include brand visibility with thousands of attendees, recognition as a community leader, and the chance to directly impact Arizona’s cultural and economic vitality. Every sponsorship dollar helps sustain programs that bring art into public life, healthcare, education, and local economies.
Tips for Attending the Festival
Know Before You Go
Admission: $5 at the door; free for kids 10 and under.
Discounts: $1 off admission for Veterans, Military, and Public Safety with ID.
Weather: Outdoor event—dress in layers and be prepared for sun.
Payments: Most vendors accept card and cash, but carrying both is recommended.
Family-Friendly: A safe, welcoming environment designed for all ages.
2024 Winners
BEST IN SHOW – Trucks Modified Through 1954, Sam Goldsmith – 1948 Chevy 3100
BEST ENGINE – Trucks Modified 1955-1979, Scott Beach – 1956 Chev 3100
BEST EXTERIOR – British Made Cars, Greg Patjens – 1959 MG MGA
BEST PRESENTATION – British Made Cars Timothy Aalbu, 1961 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud
BEST INTERIOR – Vintage Vehicles Stock Through 1936, Michael ONeill – 1935 Ford 5 window coupe deluxe
Best in Class
Trucks Modified 1955-1979, Scott Dallaire – 1957 Chevrolet 3200
Street Rods Closed Through 1936, Lorinda Brown – 1934 Ford 5 window coupe
Foreign/Sport 1980-1999, John Dean – 1984 Datsun/Nissan 300ZX
German Made Cars, Jim Cooper – 1996 BMW 328i Convertible
Cobras and Vipers, Robert Solis – 2007 Shelby GT500 Triple Black Convertible
Corvettes C-4 through C-8, Jon and Krystan Vergason – 2015 Chevrolet Corvette
Corvettes Modified, Dawnette Shupack – 1960 Chevrolet Corvette
Mopar Through 1973, Lewis Hart – 1970 Dodge Coronet 440
Vintage Vehicles Stock Through 1936, Michael ONeill – 1935 Ford 5 window coupe deluxe
Cars Stock 1949 – 1959, Thomas Baumann – 1950 Chevy 2 door hardtop bel air deluxe
Cars Modified 1960 – 1969, Pierson Dean – 1964 Oldsmobile Cutlass
Cars Stock 1980 – 1989, Ron Wickhorst – 1986 Chevrolet Camaro IROC
Trucks Modified Through 1954, Sam Goldsmith – 1948 Chevy 3100
One of A Kind Custom Vehicle, Rich Mazza – 2009 Pontiac Solstice coupe hardtop
Street Rods 1937-1948, Tim Tarris – 1941 Chrysler Royal
Cars Modified 1949 – 1959, Jack Johnson – 1955 Pontiac Safari
2023 Winners
BEST IN SHOW: Patrick Croan – 1962 Chevrolet Corvair Spyder
BEST EXTERIOR: Lawrence Wawrzyniak – 1977 Datsun 280Z
BEST INTERIOR: Terence McWilliams – 1972 Corvette Stingray
BEST ENGINE: Jane House – 1967 Austin Healey MKIII Phase 2
BEST PRESENTATION: Lloyd De Martini – 1965 Factory Five Daytona Coupe
PEOPLE’S CHOICE RUNNER-UP: Bill Urie – 1956 Ford Crown Victoria
PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNER: Sam Goldsmith – 1949 Chevrolet 3100
BEST IN CLASS WINNERS
Trucks Modified Through 1954: Sam Goldsmith – 1949 Chevrolet 3100
Trucks Stock 1955-1979: John Vermette – 1955 Chevy 3100
Trucks Modified 1955-1979: Ronald Medina – 1956 Ford F100
Trucks Modified 1980 – Present: Bruce Baca – 1985 GMC Sierra Classic Short Bed
Street Rods Closed Through 1936: Ken Gerhart – 1933 Ford 5 window Coupe
Street Rods Open & T Buckets Through 1936: Mike Edwards – 1932 Ford Roadster
Street Rods 1937-1948: Mike Thornton – 1948 Ford Woody
Foreign/Sport Through 1979: Ron Janicki – 1971 Datsun 240 Z
Foreign/Sport 1980-1999: Pancho Boice – 1993 Toyota Supra
British Made Cars: Matt Borschke – 1972 MG MGB
German Made Cars: Jim Cooper – 1996 BMW 328i Convertible
Italian Made Cars: Ned Dale – 2008 Ferrari F430 spider
Cobras and Vipers: Christina Humbert – 2003 Ford SVT Cobra
Corvettes C-1 through C-3: Michael Kelly – 1964 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe
Corvettes C-4 through C-8: Brad Vanasek – 2023 Chevrolet Corvette C-8
Corvettes Modified: Barry Rahn – 1977 Chevrolet Corvette
Chevys 1955, 1956, 1957: Dan and Joan Levitt – 1955 Chevy Bel Air 2dr HT
Mustangs Through 1973: Barry Neiwert – 1965 Ford Mustang Convertible
Camaro 1967-1981: Tom Blanchard – 1969 Chevy Camaro
Camaro 1982-Present: Arturo Montano – 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
Mopar Through 1973: Terry Toth – 1964 Dodge 440
Vintage Vehicles Stock Through 1936: Bill Boris – 1927 Pierce-Arrow Runabout
Kit Car: Keith Devine – 1957 Porsche Speedster
Cars Stock 1937 – 1948: Carl Sosna – 1937 Chrysler Airflow
Cars Stock 1949 – 1959: Bruce Packer – 1957 Chevy Bel Air
Cars Modified 1949 – 1959: Bob Thomas – 1955 Chevy Nomad
Cars Stock 1960 – 1964: Steven Schmidt – 1961 Chevrolet Impala
Cars Stock 1965 – 1969: Michael Schipansky – 1968 Chevy Camaro
Cars Modified 1960 – 1969: Rod Erickson – 1964 Chevy Chevelle
Cars Stock 1970 – 1979: Roger Benasutti – 1973 VW Thing
Cars Modified 1970 – 1979: Steve Brinson – 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle ss
Cars Stock 1980 – 1989: Ron Wickhorst – 1986 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 IROC
One of a Kind Custom Vehicle: John Hoback – 1955 Chevy 210 2-Door Sedan
