When you think of Nashville, music might be the first thing that comes to mind. However, the city is rapidly becoming a hub for custom builds, lifted truck culture, and high-octane automotive events for truck enthusiasts. Whether you’re a new owner looking to get involved in the scene or a seasoned enthusiast searching for your next big event, Nashville offers a growing calendar of shows, meets, and trail rides that put your lifted truck right where it belongs: in the spotlight.
One of the best indoor car shows in Tennessee, Nashville Auto Fest begins the year. It brings vendors, builders, and collectors from across the Southeast to the Nashville Fairgrounds every January. Owners of lifted trucks congregate here to display their vehicles or peruse builds for ideas. A must-see spectacle combines outrageous custom trucks, muscle cars, and classic cars. A lifted and lowered truck competition with a Nashville twist is Music City Showdown. It features everything from street builds to off-road rigs and is held at Nissan Stadium or the Expo Center nearby. One of Tennessee’s most exciting and inclusive custom truck events features live music, food trucks, burnout competitions, and a large social media following. Local organizations like Tennessee Trail Junkies and Volunteer Off-Road organize Middle Tennessee Trail Rides throughout the year.
These group rides explore private land, state parks, and OHV trails all within a few hours of Nashville. They are ideal for novice off-roaders because they frequently include camping, cookouts, and beginner-friendly routes. Southern Showdown is one of the fastest-growing truck meets in the state, with an increasing presence in the Nashville region. This outdoor event focuses on custom builds, lifted trucks, sound systems, and over-the-top styling. There’s a competitive edge with awards for best in show, best lighting, most extreme lift, and more. Connecting with builders, vendors, and fans of lifted objects is a fantastic opportunity.
Pop-Up Meets and Cruise-Ins are common in the Nashville suburbs of Franklin, Murfreesboro, and Hendersonville. Keep an eye on social media for spontaneous events, typically held in large parking lots or fairgrounds. Without the pressure of a formal competition, these informal gatherings are great for casual networking, showing off your truck, or just enjoying the culture. Despite having “Jeep” in its name, the Great Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion in nearby Pigeon Forge attracts thousands of lifted vehicle enthusiasts from across the nation, including custom truck owners. It’s a great destination event for anyone who loves trail-tested builds, aftermarket upgrades, and off-road gear expos.
Redneck Rumble is a custom and vintage hot rod event that features mud-ready vehicles, lifted trucks, and rat rods. With a rockabilly theme, swap meets, and a rowdy, welcoming vibe, it’s a wild ride worth checking out.
How to Participate Follow regional truck clubs on Facebook and Instagram. Many of them, including Tennessee Trucks & Customs, host regular meetups and trail rides. Additionally, sponsors and vendors frequently appear, giving you access to the most recent mod and gear trends. Also consider joining forums and Facebook groups dedicated to Middle Tennessee off-roading to stay in the loop.
The best place to begin is with a truck that has already been done right if you are prepared to construct something that is suitable for the trail or the show. At Lifted Trucks Nashville, our inventory is packed with custom-built, professionally lifted rigs ready to roll into your next event or off-road escape. We have the right build for your goals, whether you want to stand out on the show field or perform well on rocky terrain.