RECAP: Rod & Custom Auto Show 2026

For 43 years, the Rod and Custom Show has brought a little sunshine indoors to the Quad Cities in January. Last weekend's event was a celebration of everything that has come before, and a road map for future shows.

This year's theme, "Get Your Kicks on Route 66," paid tribute to the 100th anniversary of America's most iconic highway.

The BEND XPO in East Moline has been home to the show, providing a spectacular backdrop for some of the Midwest's best hot rods, show cars, motorcycles, one-of-a-kinds, theme cars, survivors, and projects.

Thanks to our partners who make this great kickoff to the car show season a success. Quad City Towing, Premier Metal Art (who will be turning one child's artwork from the show into a custom sign this week), and Dahl Ford Davenport, whose sponsorship made all active military and Veterans admission free of charge. Here's a little of what we saw this weekend.