Historic Motor Sports Association opens 2026 with gala at Mission Inn

What better way to honor the 60th Anniversary of Can-Am and Trans Am cars as well as some of the most storied drivers and crew members than by hosting a gala at a timeless National Historic Landmark that already had a history of being a gathering place for racers?

That’s exactly what Historic Motor Sports Association (HMSA) President Cris Vandagriff has planned for the 60th Anniversary Celebration of Can-Am and Trans Am.

The celebration gala, presented by Mission Foods, will be held Feb. 21 at the historic Mission Inn in Riverside, Calif. On Feb. 22, the cars and drivers of some of the most exciting and memorable racing take over the scene in the “Cars at the Mission,” featuring the iconic Can-Am and Trans Am cars. Cars at the Mission is a free event open to the public.

“The Mission Inn is truly a special and iconic venue and I can’t think of a better place to place to host an event celebrating a milestone anniversary for Can-Am and Trans Am cars along with the equally historic drivers and crew members,” Vandagriff said. “The gala event will be an incredible way to kick off a memorable and unique display for Cars at the Mission.

“The Inn itself is a museum-like setting and it will create an unforgettable backdrop as we gather cars and drivers and fans together for this monumental weekend.”

Opened in 1876, the Mission Inn is ranked as the No. 1 Historic Hotel in California. HMSA is hosting an anniversary event at the landmark hotel to signify the importance of this anniversary.

“You only get a limited number of chances to honor the momentous achievements of the past with fans, cars and drivers coming together,” Vandagriff said. “Can-Am and Trans Am cars and drivers have a dramatic and incredible history and we wanted to make sure and honor those involved the best way possible.”

An exquisite dining experience will kick off the gala, before a presentation by those involved with the premiere racing series take over the room for an intimate look back in time.

All historic racing cars are invited to participate in the Feb. 22 display. Cars at the Mission will gather in front of the Mission Inn and fans are invited to get an up-close look at the vehicles, meet drivers and enjoy the luxurious setting.

More information about the sanctioning body that requires period correct race cars and features some of the longest-running events in the country can be found at www.hmsausa.com.