Texas Heat Wave Tattoo Expo 2023

Texas Heat Wave Tattoo Expo 2023 is a premier custom truck and car show event held annually since 1989, originally founded by two custom truck clubs in Austin, Texas. This highly anticipated show, now entering its third decade and known as the Custom Sounds Texas Heat Wave, takes place every late July and attracts a growing number of quality show vehicles and large crowds of spectators from across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Since partnering with Custom Sounds in April 2001, Heat Wave Inc. has emphasized driving consumers to retailers, establishing itself as one of the largest truck and car show promotion companies in the country. The event gains extensive coverage in local and national magazines, online platforms, and DVD productions. The Heat Wave Tour offers a wide array of entertainment to engage attendees, including BMX Freestyle Stunt Teams, Motorcycle Stunts, Burnout Contests, Monster Truck Exhibitions, Lawn Mower Racing, Mini Bike Racing, Bikini Contests, and the renowned Hydraulic Contest. These attractions play a significant role in drawing the large crowds that make the event so popular. Participants and spectators are reminded that discounted show vehicle registration closes on July 16, 2023, at 11:59 pm, and discounted online spectator tickets are available until July 19, 2023. Registration for show vehicles includes two weekend wristbands, with additional attendees required to purchase their own. All sales are final, and the event will proceed rain or shine. Important event policies include a strict ban on outside food and beverages through spectator entrances, mandatory fire extinguishers for all BBQ pits, and requirements for tents larger than 20’x20’ to have a city permit and fire-retardant tag, with permits due two weeks before the event. Trailers must remain in designated areas outside the show grounds, and the use of glass bottles is prohibited. Safety is paramount, so no burnouts or unsafe driving is allowed except at the official burnout contest, which requires prior sign-up at the Heat Wave T-shirt booth. Additionally, stock vehicles are prohibited within the show area and this rule will be strictly enforced at all shows. The expo will take place at the Freeman Expo Hall, located at 3201 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78219, from July 25 to July 27, 2025.