If you thought you’d seen it all in the automotive exhibition scene, think again! The Klean Exhibition Concord 2023, after its remarkable debut, returned to the Charlotte area for the second time, stunning visitors with an array of sights, sounds, and savory treats. Held on March 11th, 2023, this event wasn’t just about cars; it was a celebration of lifestyle, a testament to the rich and vibrant car culture that thrives on the East Coast.
As an event that prides itself on diversity, Klean Exhibition Concord 2023 lived up to its promise by featuring everything from sleek imports and classic domestics to quirky rat rods and, yes, even lawnmowers! The exhibition’s philosophy is simple yet profound: if it has wheels and a motor, it deserves the spotlight. This approach has positioned Klean Exhibition as the most diverse automotive event on the East Coast, offering something for every auto enthusiast.
This year’s venue in Concord, NC, was a game-changer, divided into three distinct zones, each with its own unique ambiance. The main area, pulsing with the beats of a DJ and the excitement of a live stage, served as the heart of the exhibition. The main entrance led visitors into a whirlwind of automotive splendor, while a separate room with stadium seating offered a more relaxed, arena-like feel.
Klean Exhibition Concord 2023 goes beyond showcasing vehicles. It’s an event filled with laughter, competition, and community. Highlighting this were the various contests, including a hilarious pizza eating challenge, where rules evolved on the fly, resulting in a fun, albeit messy, spectacle. Partners had to feed each other, adding a twist to the traditional eating contest format.
The cassette tape ‘winding up’ contest threw attendees back in time, with the older generation showing off their skills and leaving the younger crowd in awe. It was a playful nod to the nostalgia that many car enthusiasts share.
The event also marked the return of beloved competitions like the dad bod contest and the always-entertaining bikini and dance contests. A standout moment was when the winners of the male and female categories faced off, utilizing Sara’s Pole on her Semi Truck, a feature that had previously captivated attendees (see our 2022 issue for more on Sara’s Semi Truck).
The Klean Exhibition in Concord, NC, was more than just a success; it was a vibrant, energetic testament to the culture and community of automotive enthusiasts. With events planned in Georgia, Virginia, Myrtle Beach, and Greenville, SC, the Klean Exhibition team shows no signs of slowing down.
As we look back on an event that perfectly blended automotive passions with lighthearted fun and fierce competition, we can only expect greater things in the future. Keep an eye out for Klean Exhibition’s next stop – you surely don’t want to miss it!
Photos by: Chris Gosda