Frequently asked
Questions, answered once.
Everything people ask us in the DMs, in one place. Can't find it? Email SolosBeachBonanza@gmail.com.
Coming to the Bonanza
How much does it cost to attend?
Nothing. Saturday spectator admission is free, the Friday Beach Party is free and open to everyone, and the Thursday kickoff in Orlando is free with an RSVP.
When is it?
Thursday, February 4 through Sunday, February 7, 2027. Thursday evening in Orlando, Friday on the road to the Keys and on the beach that night, Saturday is the show at Gilbert's Resort from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Sunday is a planned optional Everglades cruise with details to come.
Do I have to do all four days?
No. Come for Saturday only, meet us in Key Largo Friday, or do the whole thing from Orlando. Join us for as much or as little as your trip allows.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, and we mean it. Kids get in free, there is a beach, food, live music, water activities, and kids activities including a bounce house. Bring them.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes. Dogs are welcome at the show. If you are staying overnight, check your hotel's own pet policy before you book, because show admission and hotel rooms are two different things.
Is it rain or shine?
Rain or shine. It is February in the Florida Keys, so we like our odds.
Can I arrive by boat?
Yes. Gilbert's has a marina and welcomes boaters.
Showing a vehicle
What vehicles are eligible?
Classic cars and trucks, model year 2004 or older. Every vehicle is accepted through preregistration and approval.
How much is show vehicle registration?
$40 for an approved, preregistered vehicle. Apply first; we send payment instructions once you are approved, so nobody pays for a spot they did not get.
Can I just show up with my vehicle on Saturday?
No. For 2027 every show vehicle must preregister and be approved. Spectators can absolutely just show up.
Why is there an approval step?
Space. It lets us curate the field, plan the layout, and keep the weekend feeling like the Bonanza. We are not looking for one style or price point: restored classics, wild customs, and well-loved drivers with stories all belong.
Is there judging or trophies?
No judges. No trophies. No egos required. Bring something you love and enjoy it with people who get it.
When do show vehicles roll in?
Roll-in starts at 7:00 AM Saturday. The show runs 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Can I leave Saturday and come back?
Yes, but your spot is not held while you are gone.
The road trip
Do I have to drive the road trip to show my vehicle?
No. You can meet the caravan at a waypoint, meet us for lunch at Sunset Grille in Marathon, or drive straight to Gilbert's.
What time do we leave Orlando?
Staging at 5:00 AM, driver meeting at 5:15 AM, wheels rolling at 5:30 AM sharp from the Embassy Suites on International Drive.
How far is the drive?
About 323 miles from Orlando to lunch in Marathon, then about 62 miles back north to Gilbert's. About 385 miles for the day. Arrive with a full tank and plan on roughly 100 miles between major stops.
Are there tolls?
Yes, the route uses toll roads. Bring a SunPass or a compatible transponder (E-PASS and E-ZPass work in Florida), or be ready for Toll-By-Plate billing. Nobody stops at a toll plaza expecting the convoy to wait.
What if I get separated from the convoy?
Do not panic and do not drive crazy trying to catch up. This is a road trip, not a race. Continue safely to the next waypoint and regroup there. Solo leads the caravan and a sweep vehicle brings up the rear.
At Gilbert's: what to bring, what to leave
Can I bring a chair?
Yes.
Can I bring a cooler or outside alcohol?
No. Gilbert's has a restaurant and a tiki bar on site.
Can I bring a grill?
No personal grills.
Are burnouts allowed?
No burnouts, and no unnecessary revving.
Can I bring a vehicle with open headers?
Yes. Just be respectful with the throttle.
Are golf carts allowed?
No.
Can I fly a drone?
Drone plans are subject to venue approval, current FAA requirements, and safe flight conditions. Contact the event team before flying and keep clear of attendees.
Lodging, parking, and travel
What about accessibility or help getting around?
The show includes sandy areas. Accessible arrival, firm routes, facilities, and assistance details are still being confirmed with the venue. Email the event team about your needs before you travel; an accessible hotel room does not confirm access across the whole show.
What if plans change after I pay?
Event cancellation, rescheduling, and refund terms have not yet been published. Ask the team before making a payment. Hotel and travel bookings have their own cancellation policies.
Is there a Bonanza room block at Gilbert's?
No Bonanza room block or special rate. Rooms book individually, first come, first served. Check-in is 4:00 PM.
Where do spectators park?
Spectator parking is planned in the front and upper areas and in overflow areas near the bridge, with a ride-share drop-off. Final parking instructions are published closer to the event.
Where do trailers go?
Trailer and tow-rig parking will be available. Registered participants get final instructions before the event. Tell us your trailer length when you register.
I'm flying in. Can I still come?
Absolutely. People fly in for this event. Orlando International (MCO) is the airport for Thursday; Miami (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale (FLL) are the closest big airports to Key Largo.
Vendors, sponsors, and media
Can I vend at the show?
Yes, automotive and lifestyle businesses can apply. A 10' x 10' space is $500, power available, and setup begins Friday morning.
How do I sponsor?
Tell us about your brand and we will build the right package with you. The 2027 title partnership is available.
Can I cover the event as media?
Photographers, magazines, videographers, YouTubers, podcasters, and creators can apply for 2027 media credentials.
Still wondering about something? Get in touch