Annual Free Community Event
DeForest 4th of July Car Show & Veterans Honor Cruise
A free, family-friendly celebration at DeForest Fireman’s Park—classic cars, modern builds, judged awards, and a community cruise honoring veterans.
Free community event
Check-in 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM
Show 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Awards 2:00 PM
DeForest Fireman's Park
Veterans Honor Cruise Arrival 9:00 AM
Heads up: roads near the show area may close around the parade. Plan to arrive during check-in.
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Schedule & Awards
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Show Check-in: 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM
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Cruise Arrival: 9:00 AM
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Show Open: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
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Awards Announced: 2:00 PM
Be present for awards: winners should be at the ceremony for trophies and official group photos.
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Best of Show
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Best Paint
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Best Interior
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Best Stock
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Best Modified
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Most Patriotic
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Longest Commute
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Largest Club
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Local Legend
Car Show Quick Info
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Location: DeForest Fireman’s Park (DeForest Street)
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Check-in: 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM
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Veterans Honor Cruise grand arrival 9:00 AM
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Show hours: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
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Awards: 2:00 PM at the main show entrance
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Cost: Free to attend
Spectator tips: Street parking available on DeForest Street.
Veterans Honor Cruise
Join us for the Veterans Honor Cruise, a special patriotic car cruise held in honor of our nation’s birthday and, most importantly, the men and women who have served. The cruise begins in Arlington, WI and travels together to DeForest Fireman’s Park, arriving at 9:00 AM for a Grand Arrival Ceremony that officially kicks off the DeForest 4th of July Car Show.
This cruise is more than a drive—it’s a rolling tribute. Show car owners are invited to register their vehicles and take part in this meaningful procession. As part of registration, owners may also choose to host a veteran passenger in their vehicle for the cruise, creating a memorable experience and a personal way to say “thank you” for their service.
Come help us celebrate the United States’ birthday with pride, community, and gratitude as we honor our veterans—one mile at a time.
Veterans Honor Cruise Check-in: 7:30 AM- 8:15 AM
Cruise Staging: {To Be Announced}
Veterans Honor Cruise Departure: 8:45 AM
Grand Arrival: DeForest Fireman's Park (9:00 AM)
Additional info to emailed at completion of registration
Official Rules & Guidelines
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To ensure a fun, safe, and successful event for everyone, please review and follow the rules below:
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Check-In Time:
Vehicle check-in is from 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM. No late entries will be allowed after 9:00 AM due to parade-related road closures. -
Entry Route:
All show vehicles must enter from E. Holum Street to Stevens Street. Volunteers will be present to assist with parking and placement. -
No Early Departures:
For safety and flow of foot traffic, vehicles may not leave the show area before 2:00 PM, unless escorted by an event official. -
Respect Pedestrians & Runners:
Be mindful of Freedom Run participants and spectators during arrival. Use extreme caution—this is a family event with children present. -
Speed Limit:
All vehicles must travel at walking speed (5 mph or less) while on event grounds. -
No Burnouts or Engine Revs:
For safety and consideration of others, burnouts, excessive revving, or reckless behavior will not be tolerated and may result in removal from the event. -
Display Standards:
All vehicles must be parked within designated lines and remain in show-ready condition. Clean displays are encouraged but not required. -
Family-Friendly Behavior Required:
No alcohol, disorderly conduct, or inappropriate music/language. This is a family-oriented community event. -
Pets:
Well-behaved pets are allowed but must remain leashed at all times. Please clean up after your animals. -
Trophies & Awards:
Award announcements begin at 2:00 PM at the show entrance. All category winners must be present to receive trophies and participate in group photos.
If not present, awards may be given to the runner-up. -
Participants must comply with all event rules, posted signage, and instructions from event staff, volunteers, and law enforcement.
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Liability Disclaimer:
The event organizers are not responsible for any damage, loss, or injury during the event. Participation is at your own risk. -
Event organizers reserve the right to refuse entry or remove any participant or vehicle at their sole discretion.
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No alcohol, illegal substances, or impaired driving is permitted while operating a vehicle at the event.
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Insurance & Liability: All vehicles participating in the car show and/or cruise must maintain current and valid automobile liability insurance in compliance with all applicable state and local laws. Event organizers, sponsors, and affiliated parties assume no responsibility or liability for any loss, damage, injury, or claim arising from a participant’s failure to maintain such insurance. Proof of insurance may be requested at any time, and lack of valid insurance may result in disqualification from the event.
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Participants agree to indemnify and hold harmless the event organizers, sponsors, and affiliates from any claims arising from their participation.
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Event details, routes, schedules, and locations are subject to change without notice.
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The event may be canceled, postponed, or modified due to weather, safety concerns, or circumstances beyond the organizers’ control.