2026 Thunder on the Mountain Car Show Sep 12th 9am-3pm Downtown
Pre-registration has now closed for this event. Please register Sep 12 between 6am and 8:30am at 710 W Tehachapi Blvd.
The Spirit
Event History
Event History
Thunder on the Mountain is organized by local car enthusiasts, volunteers, sponsors and the Greater Tehachapi Chamber of Commerce. The Tehachapi community celebrates nearly 300 amazing cars and the pride of Tehachapi.
Event History
Event History
Event History
Thunder on the Mountain was created by the Tehachapi Car Club in 1997. Over the years, the event changed hands and In 2023 the Greater Tehachapi Chamber of Commerce officially adopted this incredible event and is looking forward to a great event in 2025. The event has grown to include car cruises at other times of the year. Check back at this website for upcoming events and updates.
What is Thunder on the Mountain?
What is Thunder on the Mountain?
What is Thunder on the Mountain?
Promptly at noon, all the vehicles start their engines. The deep vibrating roar of the engines echoes off the buildings and mountains creating thunder! The sound of the engines delights the crowd with a fun and unique experience.
The Pride
What is Thunder on the Mountain?
What is Thunder on the Mountain?
The majority of the cars and motorcycles on display are either restored by the owners or preserved by a loving family member. Each of these vehicles has a unique story to tell and the owners take pride in sharing them.
The 2026 Awards
Thank you JR Long, Tehachapi Signs and Steel Bastards for designing, cutting, creating and powder coating. Every award was made in Tehachapi! Thank you 1st Priority Vehicle Registration for crafting the specialty awards. These awards are welded from auto parts that were donated by local auto shops.
1st place winners in each of the categories receive a plaque. There are several other surprise categories, where vehicles can win additional awards, including Best in Show, Mayor's Choice, 1st Priority's Choice, Best Interior, Best Engine Compartment, Best Staged, Best Paint, Most Original (stock restore), Farthest Traveled, Youngblood (for registrants between the ages of 16 & 21), and Popular Vote. Join us for the fun. The awards ceremony will start at 2:00pm
Thank you 2025 Checkered Flag Sponsor 1st Priority Registration
Thank you 2025 Cruising Sponsors and Vintage Sponsors!
Contact us with Questions
Do you have questions or comments about the event? Send us a message, and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
Send a message to the Greater Tehachapi Chamber
