16th Annual City Of Lakes Car Show Is May 17

The Warsaw Breakfast Optimist Club is hosting the 16th Annual City of Lakes Car Show on Sunday, May 17 from noon to 5 p.m. in Downtown Warsaw at the Courthouse Square.
Car enthusiasts are invited to bring and showcase their favorite vehicles, while community members are encouraged to come out and enjoy a fun, family-friendly car show. With food, music, and activities throughout the day, the event offers a welcoming setting to connect, celebrate automotive culture, and enjoy a sense of community, according to a news release from the Optimist Club.
Returning in 2026 is the Track Side Racing Simulator, where attendees can test their skills and compete for bragging rights. The Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office will also be on hand with giveaways and a classic police cruiser.
Festivities begin at noon with the Warsaw Community High School JROTC presentation of colors. Food and drinks will be available starting at noon from the Boy Scouts and the WCHS Band. Enjoy music from the DJ from noon to 3 p.m. The Lake Area Band takes the stage at 3 p.m. that includes a musical surprise. Awards for top vehicles will be presented at 4 p.m. Attendees can also enter a 50/50 raffle with a maximum payout of $2,500.
Vehicle registration runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with judging from 2 to 3 p.m., and awards ceremony beginning at 4 p.m. The registration fee is $15 per vehicle.
Enter the car show by traveling west on Center Street from Detroit Street.
The Warsaw Breakfast Optimist Club is a volunteer organization and a “friend of youth.” Funds raised are given back to the youth in the community by way of scholarships, free events for kids and families, and grants for organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, CASA of Kosciusko County, Kosciusko Youth Leadership Program, Baker Youth Club and other youth enriching organizations.
“Our mission is to bring out the best in kids,” said Optimist Club President Brooke Hamstra. “The Car Show, together with our other fundraising efforts, enables our club to contribute to local organizations serving youth throughout Kosciusko County. We're grateful for the community's continued support in making that possible.
“We also invite you to join us for our weekly club breakfast meetings every Wednesday morning. It’s a great way to get involved and make a difference in our community.”
For additional information, email OptimistCarShow@gmail.com