Why Thousands Will Flock to Temecula This Weekend. Hint: It’s Not for the Wine

TEMECULA, CA — The Temecula Rod Run will roll into town this weekend, drawing classic car enthusiasts and thousands of visitors to Old Town Temecula for one of the city’s most beloved and iconic annual events.

The two-day event kicks off Friday, May 2, with the traditional Friday Night Cruise from 5 to 8 p.m. Along Old Town Front Street, more than 500 vintage and custom vehicles will cruise through downtown, giving spectators a chance to see everything from pre-1974 Model A's to custom hot rods, T-Buckets in motion and everything in between.

On Saturday, May 3, the event continues with the Show & Shine from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Streets will be closed to traffic as attendees get an up-close look at restored classics, under-construction projects and more.

The Rod Run, organized by the City of Temecula, typically attracts tens of thousands of people each year. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, wear comfortable walking shoes and carpool if possible, as parking in Old Town can be limited.

Sponsors for the event include the Old Town Game Coin-Op Room, Rancho Water, The Caves Murrieta, Pechanga Resort Casino and more.

Admission to the event is free. Get more information here.

Here are the road closures planned for the event:

• Friday: Old Town Front Street from Santiago Road to Moreno Road closed from 4 to 8:30 p.m.
• Mercedes Street will be open throughout Friday evening but visitors will need to enter and exit Old Town from the north entrance during the Friday Night Cruise.
• Saturday: Old Town Front Street closed from 4:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Friday: Main Street east of Old Town Front Street closes at 8 a.m. and opens Saturday at 7 p.m.
• All other finger roads closed Friday at 4 p.m. and open Saturday at 5 p.m.