National Trans Am Takeover tour kicks off in Sturgis, S.D.
STURGIS, S.D. – Get ready for an action-packed 2025 as Trans Am Takeover gears up for its most exciting year yet in Sturgis, July 11- 12, 2025.
The Sturgis location kicks off the season partnering with the Loud American , Gas Monkey and East Bound and Down. The Ultimate Smokey and the Bandit Tribute will Cruise the Black Hills, host the Ultimate Poker Run and Super Car Show on the streets of Sturgis.
Founded by Sean Bailey, Trans Am Takeover is a national car enthusiast event that celebrates all makes and models with a spotlight on the Pontiac Firebird Trans Am. The free multi-day experience includes live music, entertainment and a car show of registered vehicles taking over city streets. The best-in-show Trans Ams will be on display at Gas Monkey Sturgis where fans and visitors can also meet the tribute cast of Smokey and the Bandit..
East Bound and Down – The Ultimate Smokey and The Bandit Tribute will be a part of each event plus many other celebrities and musical entertainment. East Bound and Down is the #1 Smokey and the Bandit Tribute featuring professional actors portraying Bandit, Sheriff Buford T. Justice, Junior Justice, Georgia Trooper, and the Snowman, along with screen-accurate replica cars.
Founder of Trans Am Takeover and actor Bailey adds, “Sturgis is the perfect place to kick off our national tour. Sheriff Buford T. Justice is ready to come out and play!”
The event welcomes all Pontiac Trans Ams and Firebirds. Also included are all muscle cars and classes for other manufacturers, making it an inclusive celebration for all car enthusiasts.
This high-octane, family-friendly weekend will feature a car show, cruise, poker run, live music, and an unforgettable tribute to the legendary Smokey and the Bandit.
Car lovers, film fans, and festival-goers alike will enjoy:
- Friday Cruise & Poker Run through the scenic Black Hills (8 AM check-in at Gas Monkey Sturgis)
- Live music begins Friday night with food, fun, and the Phantom Firebird on display
- Outdoor movie screening of “Smokey and the Bandit” under the stars
- Saturday Car Show Presented by Loud American, Sturgis, lining the streets of downtown with Trans Ams, Firebirds, hot rods, trucks, and more
Meet-and-greets with the cast of East Bound and Down: The Ultimate Smokey and the Bandit Tribute, including Sheriff Buford T. Justice, Junior, The Bandit, and the Georgia Trooper
“This isn’t just a car show — it’s a celebration of American muscle, nostalgia, and one of the most beloved road films of all time,” says Bailey. “Sturgis is the perfect backdrop, and we’re honored to have Richard Rawlings and Loud American helping us bring this to life.”
The weekend includes sponsor giveaways, vendors, exclusive merchandise, food trucks, and VIP opportunities. Vehicle registration and vendor sign-ups are now open.
For full event info, registration, and other tour dates, visit TransAmTakeover.com.
Follow @TransAmTakeoverCarShows on Facebook and Instagram.
