EACH year, vintage vehicle enthusiast from across the country make a pilgrimage to the South West, over the Tamar River and into Cornwall’s ancient capital to get a glimpse of some classic steam engines and classic cars, and 2025 is set to be no different.

For three days at the end of May, Launceston Steam and Vintage Rally is set to welcome visitors to the North Cornwall town for a fun-filled bank holiday weekend.

On May 24, 25, and 26, a multiplicity of activities and exhibits will be on offer as the event gets underway.

In 2024, the rally celebrated its 40th anniversary and this year it hopes to continue the celebration with yet another year of fun!

The event offers visitors the chance to get hands on with some classic and vintage vehicles being exhibited.

Some of the exhibits featuring at this year’s event include:

  • Full size and Mini Steam Engines
  • Horticulture
  • Old Cornwall
  • Vintage Tractors
  • Stationary Engines
  • Motorbikes
  • Bicycles
  • Classic Cars and Camping
  • Commercial
  • Military
The large array of steam and vintage vehicles on display makes for an exciting show
The large array of steam and vintage vehicles on display at 2024’s event (Launceston Steam & Vintage Rally)

As well as a variety of exhibits, there is also plenty of entertainment for all the family to enjoy.

Among entertainment planned across the three days is:

  • A full size Lightning McQueen
  • Tractor -ullers
  • Shire horses
  • Alpacas
  • Dog show
  • Main ring Entertainment
  • Punch and Judy
  • Face painting
  • Pottery painting
  • Vintage games
  • Pop up and Play tent
  • Wacky Races from Marvellous Eventures
  • Live Music
  • Tea cup rides
  • Bouncy Castles
  • Interactive entertainers and much more.
Launceston PopChoir were among the performers providing a musical edge to the show
Launceston PopChoir were among the performers providing a musical edge to last year’s show (Zoë Uglow)

A spokesperson from the event said: “It is a fun day out for all the family, with numerous attractions, that raises money for local charities and organisations.

“As well as the rally itself, we hold other fundraising events during the year to help boost our funds. Details can be found on our website or on our other multi-media pages for all our events.

“The rally is, as always organised by a dedicated, hardworking committee of volunteers, and every year we try to bring something new in the way of entertainment.”

As well as providing a fun few days for all involved, the event also raises money for deserving local causes. Past events have raised money for Launceston Carnival, Cornwall Accessible Activities Program, Chemo Hero, LVFS, Launceston Lions, Launceston Scouts, Liskeard Cadets, Tregadillett Guides, LanSen Together, Cornwall Air Ambulance, Man Down and The Merlin Centre.

However, this year’s event is dedicated to supporting the League of Friends of Launceston Hospital and Community and Pentreath.

The League of Friends works to support the town’s local hospital services by fundraising for much needed equipment. While Pentreath is a charity working to support people across Cornwall with recovery from mental ill health and develop opportunities for people to meet their potential for happy and productive lives.

The organisation offers outreach, one to one coaching and support to help residents achieve their goals, whatever they may be.

Tickets for 2025’s Launceston Steam and Vintage Rally are available online or on the gate on the day.