Run to the Sun (RTTS), one of Cornwall’s best-known car shows, has been cancelled just weeks before the start date. RTTS was due to take place in Newquay over the May bank holiday weekend, from 23-26 May.
Organisers said they made the “very difficult decision” because of rising costs and wider challenges facing the events industry. Ticket holders can roll over their passes to next year’s event or request a refund.
Organisers explained that they hold the event dear, but that the challenges facing the industry are too great. “Many of our fellow events face similar hurdles, with rising costs and a cautious audience impacting ticket sales,” they said.
RTTS is a long-running car and music festival, with a focus on Volkswagens and custom builds. It’s best known for its “Show n Shine” competition, where car owners display their vehicles to win prizes. There is also a trade village selling auto parts, vintage gear and memorabilia.
The event started in the 1980s and has built a loyal following. Alongside the car displays, it usually features DJ sets, live music and camping. RTTS was put on hiatus between 2014 and 2023 – it returned to a proud welcome in 2024.
Upon its return, RTTS director Andreas Christopheros told Cornwall Live that they’d had to narrow the event’s focus: “We’ve broken down the brand and have rebuilt it with a focus on the era and cars from the late ’80s and ’90s. We’ve taken steps to limit the modern vehicles while we focus on the classics, customs and hotrods pre-1980 and aircooled VWs.”
Unfortunately, the event only ran for one year before meeting a new round of difficulties.
There is hope, however. Organisers say they plan to return in 2026. They thanked people for their “unwavering support”.
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