There are car shows… and then there’s The Bandit Run.
For Trans Am fans, classic car lovers, and anybody who ever heard a CB radio crackle with “10-4 good buddy,” The Bandit Run isn’t just another cruise — it’s a rolling reunion built around one of America’s most iconic movies.
Now, anticipation is building for 2027, which marks the 50th anniversary of Smokey and the Bandit, and organizers have begun teasing plans for a special anniversary event. Details are still developing, but longtime followers already know one thing:
If you’re celebrating Smokey and the Bandit… sooner or later, the road leads back to Texarkana.
The Bandit Run began in 2007 as a celebration of the film’s 30th anniversary. Created by Dave Hall of Restore a Muscle Car and David Hershey, the original event recreated the legendary movie run from Texarkana to Atlanta and has since grown into a nationwide tradition bringing together classic cars, road trips, and friendships that stretch across state lines.
And while plenty of cars show up, make no mistake — the stars of the show are usually rows and rows of Pontiac Trans Ams.
Over the years, the event has attracted hundreds of participants, with previous Texarkana stops drawing major crowds and turning downtown into a rolling movie set complete with replica Bandit cars, CB chatter, and even the famous Snowman-style truck. Past events associated with Texarkana welcomed around 250 participants and became one of those weekends people still talk about years later.
For locals, the event hits different.
Texarkana isn’t just another stop.
In the movie universe, Texarkana was the destination that launched the whole adventure — and for Bandit Run fans, arriving here feels a little like stepping into the opening scene.
And for some people… the memories get personal.
One local fan still tells the story of the last Bandit Run through town: getting “arrested” by Buford T. Justice, climbing into the Snowman’s rig, and making friends from places as far away as Montana that are still around years later.
That may actually explain why The Bandit Run keeps surviving.
Yes, people show up for the cars.
But they come back for the people.
The official 2027 route and anniversary details have not yet been released publicly, but organizers are already promoting the year as a SATB 50th Anniversary celebration and encouraging fans to stay connected for announcements. (Organizers reached out to us from our coverage 5 years ago, and with it being the anniversary of the movie… wink, wink)
Until then…
Keep the scanner on.
Keep the Trans Am ready.
And if you see a convoy of black Firebirds headed toward Texarkana in 2027—
You might want to check your rearview mirror.
Because the Bandit may be back.
For updates visit the BANDIT RUN OFFICIAL WEBSITE
