If you’re all about custom rides, classic cruisers, lowered trucks, killer builds, and good vibes, then Lowdown Round-Up 2025 was your kind of weekend. Set against the scenic backdrop of Water Works Park in Des Moines, Iowa, this three-day automotive celebration from May 30 to June 1, 2025 brought car and truck lovers together for one unforgettable motorsport meet-up.
What Went Down at Lowdown Round-Up
Lowdown Round-Up is more than just a show — it’s a community-powered haven where enthusiasts from all walks of the automotive world gather to show off their pride and joy. This was the 5th Annual Custom Car & Truck Show in Des Moines, and it didn’t disappoint.
Friday: Kickoff & Glow Party
The fun started Friday afternoon with registration opening at noon. The first 100 registered rides scored goodie bags, and early arrivals cruised the show field, checked out vendor booths, and enjoyed some food truck bites.
When the sun went down, the real nighttime excitement lit up — literally. A Glow/Underglow Contest for registered vehicles took over the Clarion Inn Airport grounds, turning headlights, LEDs, and custom lighting into a glowing spectacle.
Saturday: Show & Shine + Games
Saturday was packed. Gates opened at 10 AM, and spectators poured in for a day full of cruising, car games, giant Jenga, cornhole, and plenty of tunes. Judging for show vehicles ran from noon to late afternoon, and even raffle prizes (including Viar compressors!) were drawn throughout the day.
A memorable highlight? The Frozen T-Shirt Challenge had participants racing to put on an ice-cold shirt before anyone else — classic summertime fun.
Sunday: Awards & Wrap
Sunday wrapped things up with more raffles and the main event — the awards ceremony. With “Top 50” and “Best Of” honors, it was the perfect way to celebrate standout builds and give credit where credit’s due before everyone packed up and said their goodbyes.
Vibes, Vehicles, and Highlights
From custom classics to lowered trucks and tailored builds, Lowdown Round-Up showcased a jaw-dropping variety of rides that had gearheads snapping pics all weekend. Magazines like Gauge Magazine took notice, featuring the event and its standout vehicles in automotive press later in the year.
But beyond the cars and trucks, the real heart of the event was the atmosphere — laid-back but buzzing. Whether you were competing, spectating, chatting with vendors, or just enjoying a food truck lunch under the Iowa sun, this was a weekend that had something for everyone.
If you love cars and trucks and haven’t marked your calendar for the next Lowdown Round-Up, now’s the time — this Des Moines staple is only getting bigger and better.
Photos by: Phil Gordon
