Bring Your Dog to the New Hope Automobile Show — August 8

Point the hood toward the river — the New Hope Automobile Show opens its 69th annual weekend on Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at New Hope-Solebury High School, 182 W Bridge St, New Hope, PA. It's a full show field of some of the finest antique and classic automobiles in the country, set in one of Pennsylvania's most charming river towns — the kind of day trip that's worth the drive with your co-pilot along for the ride.

New Hope itself is a walkable, dog-loving little town, which makes this show a natural anchor for a bigger dog-friendly outing. But first, an important honest note.

Confirm the dog policy first

This is a large, multi-day car show, and unlike a casual coffee meet, the pet policy isn't guaranteed. The host's note is clear: Outdoor show field — confirm current pet policy with organizers. Show fields packed with irreplaceable classics sometimes limit dogs for good reason, so call or check the official show site before you load up the car. If dogs aren't welcome on the field this year, you can still make a great day of it by exploring dog-friendly New Hope after a quick solo lap of the show.

Why it's a fun day with your dog (if policy allows)

Assuming the field is dog-welcome, an antique and classic show is a feast of slow strolling — exactly the pace dogs love. Gleaming chrome, gentle crowds, and a whole town of patios and sidewalks a short walk away. Ella, our Malvern-based co-pilot, is always up for a river-town wander, and New Hope delivers.

Pack like a pro co-pilot

  • Keep the leash short. On a show field full of six-figure paint, a short lead keeps your pup clear of bumpers and mirrors. No sniffing the exhibits.
  • Bring water and a collapsible bowl. A 9-to-4 August show means real sun — hydration matters for both of you.
  • Find shade and watch the pavement. Parking lots and blacktop get scorching by midday. If it's too hot for your palm, it's too hot for paws — seek grass and shade.
  • Never leave your dog in a parked car. Not for a minute. August interiors turn deadly fast, even in the shade with windows cracked. If your dog can't be with you, leave them comfortable at home.
  • Carry high-value treats. A big show has a lot going on — a pocketful of something special keeps your dog focused and calm.

Our freeze-dried dog treats are made for exactly this kind of day — single-ingredient, lightweight, and mess-free, so they ride shotgun without wrecking your seats or your pockets.

Make a whole trip of it

New Hope is loaded with dog-friendly patios, walkable streets, and towpath strolls along the Delaware. Map your route with our Dog Adventure Plotter to line up stops before and after the show. And browse more regional meets, shows, and cruises on our community Dog-Friendly Car Events Board.

The full listing for this date lives on the event page. Details are curated from public listings — confirm the schedule, tickets, and current pet policy with the host before attending.

Classic metal, a river town, and a happy co-pilot. That's a good Saturday.

Back to blog