November 7, 2027

Trying to define "What is a Kustom?"

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     At almost every contemporary car show, you will inevitably hear someone claim that "Kustoms are dead." I strongly disagree. In reality, the Kustom culture is as vibrant and popular as ever. However, much like the terms "Hot Rod," "Street Rod," and "Rat Rod," the word "Kustom" has frequently been misused. Years of misinterpretation by self-proclaimed experts in automotive publications, on television, and across the internet have created confusion for the general public. We want to clear up that confusion and try to define what truly makes a vehicle a Kustom.  According to historical and automotive definitions, a traditional Kustom is a modified vehicle from the 1935 to 1964 era, built using the distinct customizing styles of that time period.

The builds typically feature specific modifications, including:

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• Suspension: Lowered profiles for a sleeker stance.

• Body Alterations: Chopped rooflines, sectioned bodies, and bodies channeled over the frame.

• Shaving: Removal of side trim, door handles, trunk lids, and hoods to create a smooth, clean aesthetic.

• Component Swaps: Integrating trim pieces from other vehicle makes and models to achieve a completely unique appearance.

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Within this culture, vehicles generally fall into two categories:

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• Mild Kustoms: A conservative approach where the vehicle's original beauty and factory identity are carefully preserved alongside tasteful modifications.

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• Full or Radical Kustoms: Vehicles that have been severely altered in every aspect. Almost every exterior panel is reshaped, accompanied by completely custom interiors, dashboards, engine bays, and suspensions.

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While these guidelines seem straightforward, the true definition opens up an incredible world of discussion and creativity. Kustoms are not cookie-cutter vehicles built out of a box; they are rolling works of art. It takes a lot  more effort and time to build a kustom compared to a Hot Rod.   To celebrate this enduring American art form, we gather builders and enthusiasts from across the Mid West who share a passion for true craftsmanship. This passion is the driving force behind our upcoming event.

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Event Details: Lead Ain’t Dead

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Join us for an exclusive gathering dedicated entirely to the preservation and celebration of Kustoms.  We do not have a year cut off.  The year of the vehicle is not important, but the kustom modifications have to be used in a traditional Kustom style.  Example, one year we had a newer HHR that was converted into a pick up.  Without a doubt this fit into our guideline, because it was built using the distinct customizing styles of that time 1935 to 1964 time period.  Also we have Hot Rods that want to participate and support the show. So we have a designated area where they can park.  We try to park all of the kustoms in front of the Stray Kat Station and this turns into a kool photo op.

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• Date: November 7, 2026

• Location: Dewey, Oklahoma

• Kustoms ONLY

• Entry Fee: $20

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Accommodations:

The official host hotel is the Fairfield Inn & Suites, located approximately 4 miles from the show in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. To secure a special group discount, please contact the hotel directly at (918) 331-2100.

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Contact Information:

For questions or more information, please call or text (918) 907-1477