NEWPORT, Tenn. — Classic cars, hot rods, muscle cars, and automotive enthusiasts filled Newport City Park this weekend as the Hard Times Street Rod Club hosted the 42nd Annual Moonshine Rod Run.
The two-day event, held June 19-20, drew participants from across the region, with organizers reporting more than 500 registered vehicles. From restored classics and vintage cruisers to custom-built street rods, the park was packed with vehicles representing decades of automotive history.
Visitors spent the day walking through rows of cars, meeting owners, sharing stories, and enjoying the family-friendly atmosphere that has made the Moonshine Rod Run one of Newport’s longest-running annual events.
Special guests Mark and Digger from Discovery Channel’s Moonshiners made appearances during the event, drawing crowds of fans who stopped by for photos and conversations throughout the weekend.
In addition to the vehicle displays, participants had opportunities to win cash door prizes and compete for a variety of awards recognizing outstanding vehicles in several categories.
One of the most anticipated moments of the event came during the prize drawings when Don Wise was announced as the winner of the grand prize — a new 350 Chevrolet Crate Engine.
The Hard Times Street Rod Club has hosted the event for more than four decades, and the annual gathering continues to attract car enthusiasts from Tennessee and neighboring states while bringing visitors to Newport for the weekend.
With strong attendance, hundreds of registered vehicles, and beautiful weather throughout the event, this year’s Moonshine Rod Run proved once again why it remains a favorite tradition for both participants and spectators.
Newport Journal was on hand throughout the event and captured photos of many of the vehicles, participants, and activities from the day.
