Nine Years of Horsepower, Heart, and Helping Heroes: The Story of the Salute the Troops Foundation Car Show

Some events are just events. Others become tradition. The Salute the Troops Foundation Car Show has never simply been about polished chrome, horsepower, and beautiful builds — although we certainly love all of that.

Some events are just events. Others become tradition. The Salute the Troops Foundation Car Show has never simply been about polished chrome, horsepower, and beautiful builds — although we certainly love all of that.

At its core, this event has always been about community, connection, and supporting veterans and their families in meaningful ways. And this year, we’re incredibly proud to celebrate the 9th Annual Salute the Troops Foundation Car Show — a milestone that tells a story of perseverance, growth, and unwavering commitment to our mission.

Where It All Began

Back in 2017, the very first Salute the Troops Foundation Car Show was held at Bedford High School in Bedford, New Hampshire. At the time, it was a bold idea built on passion, patriotism, and the belief that a community event centered around incredible vehicles could also become a force for good. And it worked.

The support was immediate, the energy was unforgettable, and the event quickly became something people looked forward to year after year. As the show grew, so did the need for bigger spaces and bigger opportunities.

That journey brought us to the iconic Anheuser-Busch Brewery in Merrimack, where the event found a home that helped elevate it to the next level.

Pivoting Through the Pandemic

Then the world changed. Like so many organizations, COVID forced us to rethink everything. But if there’s one thing this community has proven time and time again, it’s resilience. Instead of cancelling, we adapted.

During the pandemic, we hosted a scaled-down but still incredible event at Stark Brewing Company in Manchester — proving that even in uncertain times, community still shows up. Because supporting veterans doesn’t stop when life gets difficult.

If anything, it becomes even more important.

New Chapters, Same Mission

As the world reopened, the event continued to evolve. We brought the show to Lakes Region Casino, creating another exciting chapter in the event’s history while continuing to grow awareness and support for the mission.

Then in 2022, we returned to Anheuser-Busch, where the event continued through last year. Sadly, with the closure of the facility, it became clear that another transition was ahead. But if this event has taught us anything, it’s that change creates opportunity.

A New Era in 2026

This year marks one of the most exciting chapters yet. For the first time ever, the 9th Annual Salute the Troops Foundation Car Show will debut at the Deerfield Fairgrounds — and we won’t be doing it alone.

In an exciting collaboration, this year’s event will be held alongside the 2nd Annual VetFest with Veterans Resource Alliance of New Hampshire (VRANH).

This partnership represents something powerful. It combines the incredible energy and draw of the car show with direct veteran outreach, resources, and support.

That means attendees can enjoy:

  • 🚗 Classic cars, customs, hot rods, trucks, and incredible builds
  • 🍔 Food and family-friendly fun
  • 🎟️ Raffles, prizes, and entertainment
  • 🇺🇸 Patriotic community spirit
  • 🤝 Veteran-focused organizations and resources
  • ❤️ Real opportunities to make a direct difference

This isn’t just a bigger event. It’s a bigger impact.

Why This Event Matters

For many people, this is a favorite summer tradition. A day to admire amazing vehicles, spend time with family, and enjoy a fantastic event. But behind the scenes, this event fuels something much bigger.

As a 100% volunteer-run organization with no salaries, no payroll, and no administrative overhead, Salute the Troops Foundation ensures every dollar raised goes directly toward helping veterans and their families.

That support has helped provide:

  • Emergency heating assistance
  • Grocery support
  • Vehicle repairs
  • Financial hardship assistance
  • Accessibility modifications
  • Veteran wellness and resiliency opportunities
  • Support when families need it most

This event isn’t just about cars. It’s about showing veterans that their community stands beside them.

Nine Years Strong — And Just Getting Started

From Bedford High School… To Anheuser-Busch… To Stark Brewing during a global pandemic… To Lakes Region Casino… Back to Anheuser-Busch… And now to Deerfield Fairgrounds alongside VetFest…

This event has continued to grow because of one thing:

People who care.

Volunteers. Sponsors. Car enthusiasts. Veterans. Families. Community members who believe honoring service requires action. Nine years in, we’re just getting started. We can’t wait to welcome you to the next chapter.

9th Annual Salute the Troops Foundation Car Show

In Collaboration with the 2nd Annual VetFest | Veterans Resource Alliance of NH

📍 Deerfield Fairgrounds

🇺🇸 Supporting Heroes Together Through Community

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