38th Annual Mopars with Big Daddy Returns This November

Every fall, the rumble of Mopar power fills the air in Ocala, Florida, as enthusiasts gather for one of the most iconic car events in the country — Mopars with Big Daddy. The 38th Annual Mopars with Big Daddy will take place November 1st and 2nd, 2025, at the legendary Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, bringing together fans of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, Ram, and Plymouth for two days of horsepower, history, and heart.

But this event isn’t just about the cars — it’s about giving back. As in previous years, the show proudly supports St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, helping children and families battling cancer at no cost to them. Proceeds from the event’s raffle and auction will go directly to the hospital, making this Mopar gathering one with a true purpose.

A Mopar Event Like No Other – 

Hosted on the historic museum grounds, the event has become a pilgrimage for Mopar enthusiasts nationwide. Participants can expect a full weekend of classic and modern Mopars, vendors, raffles, and a deep dive into drag racing history with Big Daddy Don Garlits himself.

Phillips Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Ocala is sponsoring the Friday Night Dinner & Q&A with Don on October 31st, kicking off the weekend with a special evening. Dinner begins at 7:00 PM under the pavilion, followed by a personal question-and-answer session inside the museum at 8:00 PM. Guests can expect stories straight from the legend’s mouth — tales of racing glory, mechanical genius, and the evolution of the Mopar performance world.

On Saturday, November 1st, Garlits will personally host a special guided museum tour starting at 5:00 PM, highlighting cars in his collection with unique stories behind them. Limited to only 25 people, this intimate experience has already sold out, proving how highly fans value the chance to hear the man behind the legend talk about his prized machines.

Registration, Pricing, and Access – 

Enthusiasts can register their vehicles, vendor spaces, or camping spots in advance, with pre-registration open until October 29, 2025. The car show entry fee is $40 pre-registered or $45 day-of, while a 20’x20’ vendor space costs $55 pre-registered or $65 day-of.

For those looking to display a vehicle for sale, Car Corral spaces are $45 pre-registered and $50 day-of. Dry camp RV spots are available for $25, while spectator parking is just $5, and general admission to the show is free — making it an easy family weekend outing.

If you plan to attend the Friday Night Dinner, make sure to register by October 24, 2025, before the seats fill up.

Schedule of Events – 

Friday, October 31st

• 8:00 AM: Vendor setup begins

• 5:00 – 7:00 PM: Museum open for dinner guests

• 7:00 PM: Dinner under the pavilion

• 8:00 PM: Q&A with Don Garlits

Saturday, November 1st

• 8:00 AM: Gates open

• 2:30 PM: Raffle/Auction for St. Jude fundraiser

• 3:30 PM: Participant judging and trophy awards

• 5:00 PM: Guided museum tour with Don (sold out)

Sunday, November 2nd

• 8:00 AM: Gates open

• 2:30 PM: Second St. Jude raffle/auction

• 3:00 PM: Judged show trophy ceremony

During both show days, vendors, cars, and spectators will fill the museum grounds. All vehicle traffic will be redirected to the spectator parking area at 14050 SW 16th Avenue, just south of the museum. Handicap parking will be available onsite as space allows.

Big Daddy Ram Edition Spotlight – 

This year’s event will also shine a light on one of the most unique Mopar creations from the 1990s — the 1995 Dodge Ram “Big Daddy” Don Garlits Edition by Mark III. These rare, factory-sanctioned custom trucks paid tribute to Garlits and his drag racing legacy, featuring special badging, custom interiors, and Garlits’ signature touches. Owners of these special-edition trucks are invited to bring them out for display, making it the perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to see these collectible Rams up close.

The “Big Daddy” Ram represents a time when Dodge’s connection to drag racing ran deep — a tradition that events like this proudly keep alive.

Giving Back Through Horsepower – 

Beyond the roar of engines and rows of polished muscle cars, the heart of Mopars with Big Daddy lies in its mission to support children and families in need. Proceeds from the show’s raffles, auctions, and parking donations will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, continuing a tradition of compassion within the Mopar community.

Even the Marion County Sheriff’s Office Explorer Post gets involved, handling spectator parking — with part of those funds going directly to support their youth program.

Whether you’re showing off your prized Mopar, selling parts, or just coming to soak in the history, the 38th Annual Mopars with Big Daddy promises another unforgettable weekend of community, charity, and cars — all hosted by one of drag racing’s greatest legends.

For more info, go to Garlits.com