Fall Pigeon Forge Rod Run 2023 – What You Need To Know

Get your engine revved up for the 2023 Pigeon Forge Fall Rod Run, one of the area’s most anticipated events each year! Muscle cars stretch for miles as car lovers and hot-rod enthusiasts unite from all corners of the country to see hundreds of show cars glistening in the sun against a backdrop of the beautiful Smoky Mountains.

HAMPTON, VA-JUNE 9:A 1932 Ford hot rod

What is the Pigeon Forge Rod Run?

The Pigeon Forge Fall Rod Run is one of the biggest car shows in the U.S.! In addition to hot rods, both brand-new and vintage, you’ll find vendors selling accessories and rare parts, a huge swap meet, door prizes, motorist-worthy gear, and crowds of folks who love anything on four wheels, and we do mean anything.

There’s a $10,000 cash giveaway and a top-25 ranking given to the hottest of the hot rods. You don’t want to miss this show car extravaganza! 

When is the 2023 Pigeon Forge Rod Run? 

The Fall Rod Run 2023 is Thursday through Saturday, September 14th-16th. Many folks get in town earlier in the week to cruise the strip and gather for pre-Run fun. Join the party!

Where is the 2023 Pigeon Forge Rod Run?

The Rod Run is held at the LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge; however, the main strip will be packed full of cars as far as the eye can see. 

How do I enter my car in the Fall Rod Run 2023?

You bet! Check out the Pigeon Ford Rod Run’s registration sheet, or just bring your set of wheels down to (unofficially) show it off as you cruise up and down the strip.

And if your ride’s more Corolla than Corvette? That’s okay too! You’ll find TONS of other spectators who come to town just to get a glimpse of rare and restored muscle cars.

What else do I need to know?

The Rod Run is a popular event, which means traffic in the area becomes extremely congested while the show’s going on. Give yourself extra time to get where you’re going, and consider walking in lieu of driving if the distance isn’t too bad.

Also, consider booking your lodging well in advance while there is still a great selection of vacation rentals and hotels. During Rod Run time, Pigeon Forge becomes … bustling (And by “bustling,” we mean “noisy”). If you’re not the kind who likes to party until 2 a.m., consider renting a cabin a little further from town.

What else should I do while I’m in town for the Rod Run?

That’s an easy one! First order of business: Check out one of the hikes or scenic drives of the nearby Smoky Mountains National Park, such as the popular Cades Cove Loop or Newfound Gap Road.

After that, board the impressive, 25-million dollar Titanic Museum for a chance to step back in history, (bonus: no chance of sinking) or take in the views while you ride Pigeon Forge’s Great Smoky Mountain Wheel!

Next, you might plan on getting your daily allotment of laughs at one of the area’s many dinner shows, such as Hatfield and McCoy’s, where you’ll take part in a good-natured face-off with the other side of the audience while noshing on fried chicken and corn-on-the-cob.

Want more info? Check out our ultimate Pigeon Forge Guide for expert local info on where to eat, what to see, and where to stay!