Bend car show scheduled for Sept. 19 to benefit local veterans and families

Bend, Ore. (KTVZ) --- Trinity Lutheran Church & School will host its annual Trinity Lutheran Car Show on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, in Bend, Ore. All proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit Central Oregon Band of Brothers, a local nonprofit organization supporting area veterans and their families.

The Central Oregon Band of Brothers provides fellowship, resources and direct assistance to military veterans across the region. The annual car show previously raised more than $15,000 for Battle Buddies in 2024 and more than $20,000 for Warrior Impact in 2025.

Nearly 100 vehicles are already registered for the show, with additional registration spots remaining open. In addition to the displayed vehicles, the event will feature local vendors, food, a raffle and prizes. The Central Oregon Solar Car Team will also display their project to give visitors an opportunity to learn about their work.

Alita Ruggles, director of marketing and communications for Trinity Lutheran Church & School, detailed the organizational philosophy behind the annual event. “The philosophy behind the event is simple: start with nothing, end with nothing,” Ruggles said. “We don't have a fundraising pot sitting there waiting for us. We bring the community together, people give generously and then at the end of the day, we give it all away. We start with nothing, we end with nothing. Our veterans are the ones who benefit.”

The Trinity Lutheran Car Show will take place Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 2550 NE Butler Market Rd. in Bend. Admission is free to the public and attendees may make donations throughout the day to support Central Oregon Band of Brothers.