2026 JDM events in California
California’s JDM community is gearing up for several exciting events this year. From classic car gatherings to modern performance showcases, there’s something for every enthusiast. Below are the most notable Japanese‑import car shows taking place across the state in 2026.
📅 Upcoming Shows
2026 Tokyo Auto Salon
January 9–11
Held January 9–11 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, is the world’s premier custom car event, showcasing modified vehicles, aftermarket parts, and new, sporty models. Featuring major manufacturers like Toyota, Honda, and Nissan, the show highlights tuning, racing, and exclusive, high-performance, and off-road concepts.
Cars & Coffee
All-Japan Showdown
📍 Willow Springs, CA
📅 March 28-29
Buckle up for the 4th Annual All-Japan Showdown at Willow Springs International Raceway on March 28th and 29th, 2026 uniting the JDM community for a weekend of horsepower and heritage. Hosted by VARA Racing in collaboration with the Z Club of America, West Coast Datsun Club, Group Z Sports Car Club, Empire Z, Vintage Japanese Motor Union and more, this adrenaline-fueled extravaganza will celebrate the finest in vintage JDM race cars and SoCal motorsports enthusiast.
FuelFest Bay Area
📍 Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton
📅 May 30, 2026 (2–9 PM)
Massive import presence with drift demos + curated JDM section
FuelFest Bay Area includes drifting, guest drivers, and a “curated JDM section” alongside the large car show.
Petersen Automotive Museum - Japanese Car Cruise-In
📍Los Angeles, CA
📅 May 31, 2026 (9am–12pm)
Japanese Car Cruise in at the Petersen
Multi-floor display of JDM legends. Mix of show cars, customs, and classics. Strong museum crowd
FuelFest World Tour
📍Orange County Fairgrounds - Costa Mesa, CA
📅 June 13, 2026 (2pm–9pm)
This event is a mashup of the most exciting elements of music festivals, car shows, auto racing, and auto expos into one giant comprehensive mega-event that also features special guest appearances, pro drivers, movie cars, and interactive sponsor exhibits to bring you a world-class experience fit for the whole family!
Wekfest San Jose (Premier NorCal import show)
📍 San Jose Convention Center
📅 June 28, 2026
Highly curated indoor show that has a heavy JDM and VIP build presence
Very NSX-friendly crowd
Nisei Week DEKO Car Show
📍 Little Tokyo, Los Angeles
📅 August 22, 2026
Anime-themed and JDM builds that's part of Japanese cultural festival. Can't wait for this one. It's a very unique vibe.
Japanese Classic Car Show (JCCS)
📅 October ??
Held in Long Beach, this event brings a taste of Japan to Southern California, featuring cutting‑edge technology and concept cars. It’s a must‑visit for anyone interested in the latest automotive trends.
SoCal Kei & JDM Meet
📍 Gardena, CA
📅 2026 date TBD (annual)
Kei trucks + JDM community meet that's much more grassroots than formal show.
🇯🇵 Bay Area JDM Meet (grassroots staple)
📍 Westlake Shopping Center, Daly City
📅 Various dates throughout the year
Skyline / RX-7 / Honda heavy turnout. It's a Casual but very authentic scene
This meet is known locally as “a haven for JDM fans” with a strong tuner presence.