The Magic Dragon Street Meet Car Show Returns To Bagnell Dam Strip This Weekend

LAKE OF THE OZARKS, Mo. — One of the Lake’s most iconic traditions is set to return May 1-2, as the 38th Annual Magic Dragon Street Meet Nationals takes over the historic Bagnell Dam Strip.

The long-running event, which began in 1987, is already sold out for participants, with more than 800 cars, trucks, and motorcycles registered. Each year, the show also draws over 10,000 spectators, turning the Strip into a high-energy showcase of chrome, horsepower, and nostalgia.

What makes the Magic Dragon Street Meet unique is its setting. On Saturday, Bagnell Dam Boulevard is closed to regular traffic, allowing only show vehicles to line the Strip. The result is a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that many compare to stepping onto the set of American Graffiti, with classic cars and crowds filling the streets.

The show is open to all makes, models, and years, creating a diverse mix of vehicles—from vintage classics to modern builds. Last year’s Best in Show went to Will Dees for his 1971 Chevrolet K20 truck.

Beyond the cars, one of the weekend’s highlights is the Pedal Car Challenge, now in its sixth year. Local students design and build custom pedal cars, which are auctioned off during the event. The live auction is set for 1 p.m. Saturday at the main stage, with all proceeds going directly toward student scholarships. Thanks to community support, the program has already raised more than $71,000.

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Event organizers have also implemented several updates for 2026 due to the show’s continued growth. Bagnell Dam Boulevard will be closed Friday from 4 to 10 p.m. for registered participants only, and all show vehicles must be removed from the Strip by 2 a.m. Saturday to allow for a fresh setup before reopening at 5 a.m.

For spectators, the weekend offers a chance to experience one of the Lake’s most recognizable events—where the streets fill with engines, music, and thousands of visitors celebrating car culture in the “Land of the Magic Dragon.”