Pigeon Forge Rod Run Attendees Express Dismay Over New Rules for Parking and Car Sales, Sparking Controversy Among Car Enthusiasts and Event Organizers
Attendees of the popular Pigeon Forge Rod Run, one of the largest and most anticipated car shows in the Southeast, are expressing frustration over a series of new regulations introduced this year, specifically concerning parking and the sale of vehicles. The changes, which were announced shortly before the event kicked off, have sparked a backlash among car enthusiasts, vendors, and event-goers who feel the new rules disrupt the tradition of the annual show.
The Pigeon Forge Rod Run, held every spring and fall in the picturesque Tennessee mountain town, typically attracts thousands of car enthusiasts from across the country, showcasing everything from vintage muscle cars to custom-built hot rods. The event has long been a staple of the local community, drawing not only car lovers but also tourists who come to enjoy the spectacle, take part in various activities, and explore the vibrant shopping and dining scene.
However, this year’s event has been marked by controversy after the introduction of a new set of rules aimed at regulating parking and car sales. The most contentious change pertains to the location and setup for vehicle sales, which has traditionally been a major part of the Rod Run experience. Previously, car sales were allowed in several designated areas around the event grounds, with private sellers and dealerships setting up shop to showcase cars for sale directly on the main event streets. This year, however, a new policy requires all vehicles intended for sale to be parked in a centralized “vendor lot” located several blocks away from the main event activities. Additionally, these vehicles must be registered with event organizers, and only approved vendors are allowed to participate in sales on-site.
For many attendees, this shift has been a major inconvenience. “It’s frustrating,” said Greg Reynolds, a long-time attendee from Kentucky who has attended the Rod Run for over 15 years. “This show is all about the cars and the people, and now they’re making it harder for private sellers to display their vehicles where people can actually see them. Having to park cars so far away takes away from the fun of it all. It’s just not the same.”
Beyond the parking arrangements, another major point of contention is the new parking rules for event-goers. In past years, visitors could park in various open lots and along nearby streets, which allowed for convenient access to the event and easy viewing of the cars on display. This year, however, event organizers have instituted a strict policy that limits parking to designated areas, with limited availability. The new rules have caused long lines and confusion, especially during peak hours when visitors are vying for spots close to the action.
“I’ve been coming to the Rod Run for a decade, and it’s always been a blast, but this year the parking situation is just ridiculous,” said Rachel Adams, a car enthusiast from North Carolina. “We had to park about a mile away and shuttle in, which is fine if you’re prepared, but when you’ve got kids and gear, it’s a hassle. It’s taking away from the experience.”
Event organizers, who introduced the new rules citing safety concerns and an effort to improve crowd control, have defended the changes, stating that they were necessary to ensure the event’s continued success and growth. In a statement released by the event organizers, they explained that the decision to centralize car sales and enforce designated parking lots was made to streamline logistics and provide a safer environment for both participants and spectators.
“We understand that any change can be difficult, but we are committed to making the Rod Run better for everyone,” said Melissa Carter, spokeswoman for the event. “The new rules are designed to manage the growing crowds and ensure a smoother experience for everyone involved. We appreciate the feedback from our attendees and will continue to evaluate ways to improve the event for future years.”
Despite these reassurances, many attendees remain unconvinced that the new regulations are in the best interest of the event’s long-standing traditions. The Pigeon Forge Rod Run has always been about community, accessibility, and the love of cars, and many feel that these new rules could alienate long-time supporters and make the event feel more commercialized.
With the 2024 Rod Run now in the books, the question remains whether the changes will remain in place for future events or whether feedback from attendees and vendors will prompt organizers to reassess the new rules. As of now, it’s clear that the parking and car sales changes have sparked a conversation about the balance between growth and tradition in one of the Southeast’s most beloved car shows. Whether the Rod Run will be able to maintain its charm while adapting to new demands will depend on how well the event’s organizers listen to their community of dedicated fans.
