MEDFORD, Ore. (Jun. 20, 2026)— Hundreds of vehicles ranging from classic hot rods and muscle cars to modern custom builds are expected to roll into Medford this weekend as the community celebrates the 41st annual Medford Cruise, a longstanding tradition that attracts automotive enthusiasts from across Southern Oregon and beyond.
The free event, which began in 1985, was created to unite car enthusiasts while raising money for local youth organizations. Over the past four decades, organizers say the event has generated more than $620,000 to support youth programs throughout the region.
Saturday festivities begin with two Show ‘N Shine exhibitions at the Fichtner-Mainwaring Park in SW Medford. Vehicles manufactured in 1979 or earlier, along with those built in 1980 or later, will be on display from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event allows spectators to view a wide variety of restored classics, custom vehicles, trucks, and specialty automobiles.
The signature cruise through downtown Medford is scheduled from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, when hundreds of vehicles will travel a designated route through the city’s core. The cruise has become one of Medford’s most recognizable annual events, drawing thousands of spectators to downtown streets.
This year’s vehicle judging will feature several categories, including Chevy/GM, Ford, MOPAR, 1980 & Newer, and All Other Makes and Models. Organizers will also award a Best in Show title along with several specialty trophies.
Motorists and residents should expect significant traffic impacts throughout Saturday. Partial road closures are anticipated during the day, followed by full closures along the cruise route beginning at approximately 4:30 p.m. and continuing until about 8:30 p.m.
Streets expected to be fully impacted include:
- Central Avenue from Jackson Street to West Main Street
- 2nd Street between Front Street and Central Avenue
- 6th Street from Ivy Street to Central Avenue
- West Main Street from Central Avenue to Ivy Street
- Front Street from Jackson Street to West Main Street
City officials also remind drivers that parking will not be permitted along the cruise route from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday. Vehicles remaining on the route during those hours will be towed to the nearest available side street. Owners seeking information about relocated vehicles can contact the Medford Police Department.
Organizers encourage residents and visitors alike to attend the family-friendly event, which continues a four-decade tradition of celebrating automotive culture while supporting local youth programs.
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