The first week of March, Lake Havasu City becomes the ultimate destination for 1932 Ford vehicles, more affectionately known as “Deuces.” The event, formerly known as the 10th Annual Havasu Deuce Show, also includes 1957 and earlier classics, making it one of Lake Havasu’s premier automotive gatherings. Participants, many of whom drive their classics in cruise-style groups for over a thousand miles, come together to celebrate the iconic “Deuce.”
For those unfamiliar, Lake Havasu City has one of the highest concentrations of Deuces per capita—on any given day during an event, these classics are well represented. The show is organized by Havasu Deuces, a non-profit group of 1932 Ford enthusiasts, in collaboration with Rodding USA, a well-known hot rod publication. The London Bridge Resort serves as the host hotel for the week-long festivities.
Upon arrival, participants shake off the travel dust and dive into the action. The event kicks off on Wednesday with a cruise to Parker, AZ, where a long line of hot rods heads to Pirate’s Den for breakfast. The pleasant weather and camaraderie provide the perfect setting for reconnecting with old friends.
Thursday begins with registration at the London Bridge Resort at 8 AM, where attendees can purchase a wide variety of event shirts for men, women, and children. Later in the day, “Deuces Downtown” takes center stage. McCulloch Blvd is closed off to showcase Deuces on one side and pre-1957 classics on the other. With efficient parking and city support, nearly three thousand spectators roam the streets, admiring the beautifully restored and customized vehicles. Our roadster was parked next to Desert Rose, a local boutique and decor studio. The staff’s hospitality, offering water and access to their facilities, made us feel welcomed—just another example of how Lake Havasu embraces this event. As we departed, the Desert Rose team even helped us navigate through the cones. Kudos to Lake Havasu for its unwavering support of this gathering; we’ll definitely be back!
If you haven’t done the garage tour, you’re missing one of the event’s true highlights. These private garages and showrooms are nothing short of spectacular. Seeing the time and effort put into maintaining, restoring, and building these machines is inspiring. Many garages feature full machine shops, fabrication facilities, and assembly areas. As a metal fabricator, I appreciate the craftsmanship involved in shaping metal to perfection. The generosity of the garage owners in sharing their spaces adds a special touch to the event. The day concluded at BlondZees, a Havasu steak eatery, where we enjoyed great food and more hot rod discussions. I always leave with fresh ideas for my own garage, shop, and showroom!
On Saturday, the main car show takes place at the grass ballfields at Rotary Park, providing easy access in and out. The event features a well-rounded selection of vendors, including food stalls, women’s apparel, and plenty of hot rod merchandise. Nearly 400 vehicles participate, with Deuces lined up on one end of the field and pre-1957 classics on the other. Most vehicles are arranged facing the same direction, making it easy for thousands of spectators to take in the classic rides. The event wraps up with awards, prize drawings, and well-earned recognition for standout vehicles.
With this year’s event now in the books, I’m already looking forward to next year. I hope to drive my own ’32 Deuce Roadster to what is undoubtedly the coolest Deuce show west of the Mississippi!
All proceeds from the show and merchandise sales benefit the Lake Havasu High School Athletics Program in the form of scholarships.
