The Mustang is considered one of the most iconic Muscle Cars of all time, and annually at the Carlisle Ford Nationals, thousands of them are showcased on the National Parts Depot Showfield.  For 2024, not only will Ford Nationals weekend (May 31-June 2) celebrate 50 years of Carlisle Events, but it’ll also be showcasing 60 years of the Mustang.  As such, guests can expect a variety of Mustang-themed displays, including a timeline display tent showcasing one Mustang from each year of production, a 50^th gallery of some of the top Mustang II’s ever produced, another Mustang gallery highlighting some of the Mustangs of all time, and just announced, joining that display will be a very special ’63 concept that’s rarely shown at events.

The concept in question is the 1963 Mustang II Concept and it’s coming directly to Carlisle by way of the Detroit Historical Society, its home since 1975.  Before it got there and to Carlisle for that matter, it was an inspiration and showpiece for Ford and Ford lovers alike. 

This concept was in part, the brainchild of Lee Iacocca.  Knowing that there was a general hunger for the Mustang project and all things Ford, he envisioned a car that would hint at future Ford builds.  The result; is this Mustang II Concept.  Visually, it resembled the first-generation Mustang, but carried some modifications that made it unique.  Its steel body was five inches longer than the Mustang and its top to bottom size was three inches shorter.  There was an aircraft-styled instrument cluster that included a Ford Falcon speedometer, plus hand-made upholstery. 

Debuting at Watkins Glen, New York in advance of the United Grand States Prix, it would ultimately only make a few more appearances through 1964 before slinking back into obscurity.  It did, however, serve as a test mule for R&D engineers as a way to better fine-tune their mainline Mustang projects.

Now, thanks to the historical society and the international reputation of the Carlisle Ford Nationals, the car comes to Carlisle for the first time ever.  It rarely appears at events of any type and will be THE centerpiece of the Mustang Legends gallery in Building T

“The Detroit Historical Society is excited to partner with Carlisle Events, one of the premier automotive venues,” said Dave Marchioni, Automotive and Industrial Curator, Detroit Historical Society.  “The Ford Nationals is an amazing event to showcase cars from our collection!” 

Gates open at 7 AM daily and these displays are just one small part of the world’s largest all-Ford-themed car show.  There’s still time to register for the National Parts Depot Showfield, secure a vending space within the automotive flea market, or purchase discounted spectator admission tickets.  Full details on the event are available at CarlisleEvents.com or by calling 717-243-7855 today. 

It takes a lot of resources to execute events at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds and Carlisle Expo Center.  There’s manpower, wind power, horsepower, and ALL NEW for 2025, solar power.  Carlisle Events, in partnership with the USDA and Solar Renewable Energy of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania is proud to announce the installation and implementation of solar panels and solar power both at the fairgrounds and the neighboring Carlisle Expo Center. 

The project was years in the making and was made possible by way of a grant from the USDA and their Rural Energy for America Program or REAP.  REAP helps farmers, ranchers, and rural small business owners invest in renewable energy through renewable energy and energy efficiency loans and grants, energy audits, and renewable energy development grants.  Funds may also be used for the purchase, installation, and construction of energy efficiency improvements.  It’s these improvements that will adorn the two facilities in the coming months.

Behind-the-scenes conversations, logistics, and planning had been ongoing throughout 2023 with the ultimate green light coming in December.  While the visible core of the work won’t begin until the middle of 2024, the project is expected to be completed by the end of the year and will offer no impact on the overall guest experience during events.  Panels will adorn the roof of the grandstand at the fairgrounds, while also occupying space on the roof of the expo center.

This project in Carlisle isn’t the first for the region, but it’s the first known solar-powered option for an automotive events producer such as Carlisle Events.  Additional solar support in central Pennsylvania can be found adjacent to the GIANT/Ahold corporate offices, Carlisle Area School District, Freysinger Auto Group in Harrisburg, and Tröegs Independent Brewery in Hershey.  In each instance, beyond the financial savings that solar generates, it also offers tremendous benefits to the health and well-being of the community.  Further, it cements the Miller family’s commitment to their business and facility now and going forward.  This ensures that Carlisle and the fairgrounds are THE HOME for collector car lovers from around the world for years to come.  Finally, according to the Solar Renewable Energy team, at least 4% of Pennsylvania is solar-powered, making Carlisle Events the latest state entity to go solar.

“The Rural Energy for America Program or REAP is bringing rural small businesses and farmers financial support to make their energy-efficient projects a reality across Pennsylvania,” State Director for USDA Rural Development Bob Morgan said. “Since 2021, we have invested more than $25 million in energy efficiency projects in Pennsylvania. We are thrilled to be able to bring these resources to the Carlisle Fairgrounds.”

“It’s been great to work with the Carlisle Fairgrounds to show the public how effective solar can be in reducing energy expenses and shielding itself from future energy inflation by going solar,” said Seth Berry of Solar Renewable Energy. “Schools, hospitals, municipalities and businesses can all follow the example that the fairgrounds is setting by protecting the environment while it saves significant money by going solar.”

“We are excited to make this solar transition,” noted Carlisle Events co-owners Bill Miller and Lance Miller (no relation).  “This investment will not only help sustain our own operations with renewable energy but will allow Carlisle Events to contribute additional sustainable energy back into the community and its power grid,” added Bill and Lance.  “We can’t thank the USDA enough for their belief and support of this venture and for the team at Solar Renewable Energy for their installation efforts.  This path forward is great for everyone involved and we look forward to the completion of the project.”

The 2024 Carlisle-based schedule commences April 17 with Spring Carlisle driven by Hemmings.  Gates open for all events at 7 AM, with kids 12 and under admitted FREE.  Information on the full Carlisle 50^th season, how to become a vendor, register for the Showfield/Fun Field, apply for display consideration, or simply purchase discounted spectator admission tickets can be found at CarlisleEvents.com or by calling 717-243-7855.