Hot Rods Making a Difference: Vintage Torque Fest Returns to Dubuque

If you're into vintage cars, motorcycles, live music, art, and good old-fashioned engine-revving fun, there's one event you absolutely can’t miss: Vintage Torque Fest, this Friday (5/2/25) and Saturday (5/3/25).

Founded by John Wells, Vintage Torque Fest is all about celebrating a love for classic rides, motorcycles, and vintage culture. What started as a passion project for John and his family has exploded into one of the top vintage lifestyle events in the country. In fact, back in 2015, Torque Fest welcomed over 9,000 spectators and had more than 900 vehicles roll through the gates! The event is also a huge fundraiser for Helping Hannah's Heart, which provides vital funding for families of children with heart defects. Check out the full interview with John Wells below.

During our chat, Wells shared that Torque Fest has always been about creating a space where people can come together over their shared love of the vintage lifestyle. It’s not about perfect cars or polished chrome (although those are all there): it’s about passion and community.

Get our free mobile app

But Vintage Torque Fest is much more than just a car show. It’s a full-on festival experience. There’s a huge swap meet, mini bike races, vintage motorcycle exhibitions, dirt drags, a demolition derby, a pin-up contest, and an art auction filled with incredible, one-of-a-kind pieces. Not to mention flame-throwing cars!

And this year, expect loads of live music across three stages, featuring everything from rockabilly to country and everything in between that screams vintage. No matter what you’re into, you’ll find a band that gets you movin' and groovin'.

John also teased a few surprises in store, with some special guest artists and some legendary builders who will hang out and meet fans. It’s about making those connections and giving people memories they’ll never forget.

The vibe at Vintage Torque Fest is laid-back, welcoming, and a little bit wild in the best way. Whether you're showing off your ride, racing a mini bike, or just there to soak up the scene, everyone's a part of the Torque Fest family. Check out the full schedule below.

And the best part? Remember, it's all for a great cause. All gate proceeds go to Helping Hannah’s Heart Foundation, which supports families dealing with congenital heart defects. So when you come out to Torque Fest, you're not just having a blast. You're helping make a real difference for two very real families this year: the Rebel Sanchez family and the Norina Thorson family.

Vintage Torque Fest is the perfect way to kick off the warmer weather. Good people, great cars, live music, and a whole lotta' heart. That is, of course, what Torque Fest is all about. I'll see you there, this Friday and Saturday!