Friday, May 1, 2026 

The air is thick with the smell of gasoline and the sound of roaring engines at the Dubuque County Fairgrounds today. Vintage Torque Fest is officially in full swing, bringing together the absolute best of “kustom” culture for a high-octane Friday and Saturday. 

From the immaculate, polished chrome of the indoor custom show to the gritty, dirt-slinging action of the track, there is an unmistakable energy here. Everywhere you look, you’ll find pre-1965 hot rods, custom motorcycles, and creative rat rod builds that push the boundaries of automotive art. 

Whether you’re here for the live music, the swap meet, or to watch vintage steel battle it out in dirt drag racing and mini-bike sprints, this weekend is about more than just machines. It’s a gathering of a community dedicated to a vintage lifestyle, all while supporting a great cause—raising funds to help children with congenital heart defects. 

The gates are open, the sun is out, and the show is just getting started. If you aren’t here yet, you’re missing out on the premier vintage spectacle of the Midwest. Grab your gear and get down to the fairgrounds—Torque Fest is the place to be all weekend long!