Friday, May 1, 2026 

DUBUQUE, IA – The night sky over the Dubuque County Fairgrounds wasn’t just lit by the stars Friday night; it was set ablaze by a thunderous roar and 20-foot plumes of fire. The annual Vintage Torque Fest kicked off its 2026 season with its signature Friday night spectacle: the Exhaust Flame Thrower Show, leaving a capacity crowd in awe. 

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the “After Dark” festivities shifted into high gear. Dozens of custom-built hot rods and rat rods lined up, their modified exhaust systems primed to turn raw fuel into towering pillars of orange and blue light.

A Spectacle of Heat and Horsepower

The crowd, a mix of local families and vintage car enthusiasts who traveled from across the country, felt the heat long before they heard the crackle. Each time a driver revved their engine, a massive fireball erupted from the rear, illuminating the chrome and rust of the gathered vintage steel.

 Flame throwing cars video 

“You can feel the thump in your chest when those cars let loose,” said one spectator from the grandstands. “It’s not just a car show; it’s a sensory overload. The heat hits your face and the sound is just pure adrenaline.”

More Than Just Showmanship

While the fire-breathing cars were the undisputed stars of Friday night, the event serves a much deeper purpose. Organized by John Wells, Vintage Torque Fest is a premier fundraiser for the Helping Hannah’s Heart Foundation. 

Every roar of an engine and every ticket sold helps provide financial assistance to families dealing with congenital heart defects. To date, the event has raised over $230,000 for the cause, turning a passion for “greasy” car culture into a lifeline for children in need. 

The Weekend Ahead

If you missed the Friday night fire, the action at the Dubuque County Fairgrounds is far from over. The gate opens early Saturday for a packed schedule, including:

• Dirt Drag Racing: Vintage cars and motorcycles go head-to-head on the dirt track. 

• The Swap Meet: A treasure trove for collectors looking for rare parts and vintage memorabilia. 

• Live Music: Three stages featuring roots, rock, and Americana, including high-energy blues-rock performances. 

• Pin-Up Contest: A celebration of classic 1950s fashion and style. 

• Mini-Bike Races: High-speed chaos on a small scale that has become a fan favorite. 

The Vintage Torque Fest continues through Saturday, May 2nd. Whether you’re there for the custom builds, the music, or simply to support a great cause, the energy at the fairgrounds proves that vintage culture is alive, well, and—at least on Friday night—literally on fire.