Tom Joyce Automotive car show returns Oct. 24 to support Port Charlotte High football

Tom Joyce Automotive will host its annual Port Charlotte car show on Oct. 24, 2026, with proceeds going to the Pirates Football Legacy Club, which supports Port Charlotte High School’s football program. The event will draw more than 200 vehicles, offer free spectator admission, and include a charity raffle, live music and family activities.

Why it matters: - The event turns a local car show into a fundraising driver for Port Charlotte High School football. - Vehicle entrants get a free digital inspection and a discount on future service, adding a practical benefit beyond the show. - Spectators can support the cause without paying admission.

What happened: - Tom Joyce Automotive announced its annual Port Charlotte car show will return on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026. - The event will benefit the Pirates Football Legacy Club, the nonprofit that supports Port Charlotte High School's football program. - Organizers expect more than 200 vehicles, ranging from pre-1950 classics to modern electric vehicles, lifted trucks and Jeeps. - The show runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Port Charlotte, Florida.

The details: - Vehicle entry costs $20. - Each registered vehicle includes a free comprehensive digital inspection. - Entrants also receive 10% off any service needed within 90 days of the show. - Spectator admission is free. - A raffle will run throughout the day, with half of ticket proceeds going to the Pirates Football Legacy Club and half to the raffle winner. - Last year's raffle winner won $700 and donated the full amount back to the football program. - The show will include judged classes by decade from pre-1950 through the 2020s. - Specialty categories include Classic Trucks, Lifted Trucks, Jeeps, Electric Vehicles and a Tom's Choice award selected by the shop's ownership. - The event will also feature a DJ, food trucks and family activities. - Local sponsors are backing the expanded event. - Organizers say attendance has grown each year and expect hundreds of car enthusiasts and families in 2026. - Vehicle owners can register through Tom Joyce Automotive's website or by contacting the shop directly. - Venue details are available on the event page.

Between the lines: - The show is designed to blend community branding with a direct service offering, since the inspection mirrors the diagnostics Tom Joyce Automotive uses in its shop. - Florida's heat and humidity can strain batteries, belts and air conditioning systems, making the inspection useful for owners of older or specialty vehicles. - The fundraising model gives both entrants and spectators a way to support the football program. - The event also reinforces Tom Joyce Automotive's local presence in Charlotte County, where the business has operated since 1993.

What's next: - Car owners who want to participate can register ahead of the event. - Spectators can attend on show day without registering. - Vehicle owners can use the inspection results to schedule service before or after the show if needed. - Tom Joyce Automotive expects the Oct. 24 event to continue its year-over-year growth.