Some car shows are simply dates on the calendar. Others become part of the culture. For nearly four decades, Fabulous Fords Forever has been one of those events. From its earliest days celebrating the Mustang to its evolution into one of the country’s most respected all-Ford gatherings, the event has built its reputation on something that’s difficult to manufacture: community. Now, after a three-year absence, Fabulous Fords Forever is coming back, and it’s got a new home.
A Southern California Tradition
The story began on April 15, 1984, when the Mustang Jamboree brought more than 500 Mustangs and hundreds of other Ford-powered vehicles together in Southern California to celebrate the Mustang’s 20th anniversary. The response made one thing clear: There was an appetite for a permanent annual gathering dedicated to the Blue Oval.
The Ford Car Club Council was subsequently organized with participating clubs, and in 1985, the Fabulous Fords Forever name was selected. The first official event followed at Knott’s Berry Farm on April 13, 1986, drawing 1,324 registered vehicles.
From there, the event continued to grow, moving through some of Southern California’s most recognizable automotive venues, including Knott’s Berry Farm, Angel Stadium, and Irwindale Speedway. Then Irwindale Speedway closed in 2024, leaving Fabulous Fords Forever without a home. Finding the next one wouldn’t be easy.
A New Home
The search for a venue took more than seven months and covered locations across Southern California. The requirements were substantial: a central location, enough room for hundreds of show vehicles and thousands of enthusiasts, suitable dates, and the infrastructure to support an event that could grow beyond the traditional car-show format.
The answer turned out to be Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California. Located in the heart of Southern California, Santa Anita provides the space and accessibility the event needs while opening the door for Fabulous Fords Forever to expand its footprint and programming. It’s a new setting for a familiar tradition.
Finding a venue was only part of bringing the event back. Earlier in 2026, POWER Automotive Media, Mustang Week, and the Ford Car Club Council announced a long-term partnership to preserve, operate, and grow Fabulous Fords Forever. Each brings something different to the table…