OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing hosted their annual First Responder Car and Truck Show on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Retired and active first responders showcased new, old and specialized vehicles throughout the show. Participating vehicles could enter cars for $20 while spectators could check out the cars with free attendance.
Guests could walk around the museum grounds to get up close and personal with vehicles such as military vehicles, classic cars, motorcycles, police cars and a fire truck with a U.S. flag. Some vehicles sported themes from movies and media such as the Grinch, Spiderman, Deadpool, King Kong vs. Godzilla, Friday the 13th and the Joker amongst others. Throughout the event, guests had the option to donate blood at a LifeSouth blood drive on-site.
The show also featured vendors and food trucks, offering a variety of items for guests to try out. Vendors included DFS Polish, Ocala Blue Star Mothers, Friend of Marion County Veterans Park, Bagen Law and some vendors selling items such as 3D printed items and Hot Wheels toy cars. Food trucks included Tammy’s Cup of Sunshine, Brick City Hot Dogs and Hippie Dippie.
This show was a fun way for car enthusiasts to connect and check out vehicles of varying styles, ages and models. The Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing is located at 13700 SW 16th Ave, Ocala. Their hours of operation are Monday-Sunday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
