Carlisle PA swap meet.

[59meteor]

Now that I live "only" about 1200 miles from Carlisle, I am heading down next week to attend the legendary automotive swap meet in Carlisle PA, just wondering if many of you guys go, or have gone before. Any tips? I understand that it is huge, the largest swap meets that I have been to before were in Portland Oregon. Is it mainly on grass, asphalt, concrete, etc, indoors, outdoors, typical mid April weather in the area, etc. Obviously, one should be prepared for chances in weather, and wear comfortable shoes, but if it rains, are rubber boots really needed, are insects a problem that time of year? We are planning to arrive Weds, and stay until Sat morning, and then head out to some drag races, and maybe car museums on the way back to Nova Scotia. What are the busiest days at the swap meet? Any other things to be aware of, or points of interest between Carlisle and , say, Bangor Maine? Thanks.

[David70A]

Pretty hit or miss in my years of going, with more miss especially with Ford and pre-1970s stuff. I feel like more non-automotive items have come in over time. That said, it's fun. Insects not a problem as field open and it is early in the season. Paved service roads up and down the rows, but lots of grass as well. I also notice that Carlisle shows wrap up earlier in a practical sense; don't bother after Saturday around 2 or so, and go Sunday if you want some quiet time alone.

Weather looks cool with some rain this year, which is not unusual for the spring event.

[59meteor]

Thanks, David, I ended up having to cancel my Carlisle trip, due to bad back and leg pain the day before we were supposed to leave. Hopefully my health improves for either a later swap meet later in the year, or next spring. A Carlisle (or Hershey) swap is still on the bucket list.

[FiveSevenLiter]

Rory,
When you get to Carlisle, I would take the time to go 45 minutes south and drive through the Gettysburg battle fields.  It is quite experience even for a Canadian.
Hopefully it is not your clutch pedal leg that is hurting.
Terry
 

[Lou]

You have to go to Hershey at least once in your life.
In the fall Carlisle and Hershey are only a week apart.

[JRD007]

On my bucket list, have been going to Portland since 79. Just trying to find a possi to go with. Drive Fly   I tend to buy a lot of other people's treasures.

[KYBlueOval]

I've been to both Hershey and Carlisle one time each. My experience was that Hershey is primarily Pre-war and Carlisle is more Post-War.
John

[BP57CUSTOM]

I went to Hershey about 40 years ago, really more than that I can't remember. We spent about three days looking at parts. It rained continually. I'm still wet. I've never seen anything like that since. I'd like to go again but I'm getting too old and I don't have any money. Oh well ,lets go haul some shine. yeehaa

[Lou]

Hersey has changed a lot in 40 years.
Rules now are 25 years and older for cars and parts.
If you plan to go to Hersey and/or Carlisle book your room NOW !