Torre Pacheco Antiques and RetroAuto show draws nearly 14,000 visitors

IFEPA, an event venue in Torre Pacheco, Murcia, recently closed out a smash hit double event: the 23rd edition of the Antiques and RetroAuto show, which this year saw nearly 14,000 visitors. The event, a combination of an antiques fair and a vintage vehicle showcase, saw more than 40,000 antique pieces and more than 200 classic and vintage vehicles united over the three days of the event.

A record turnout for a popular double event: Thousands of antiques on display in Murcia

IFEPA, or the Palace of Fairs and Exhibitions of the Region of Murcia, was the meeting point for lovers of unique antique pieces, collecting, decoration, restoration and classic motors at the tail end of September, with the event gathering thousands of visitors and garnering interest from all over the Region of Murcia and beyond.

Taking visitors through a journey of different eras and styles, IFEPA became a wonderland of objects, curiosities, collectibles, and vehicles, bringing hobbyists and the general public closer to the cultural, industrial, and social reality of the last few decades.

Tens of thousands of unique antiques and free restoration demonstrations

The antiques portion of the event featured nearly 100 exhibitors from both Spain and France, with a jaw-dropping total of more than 40,000 pieces, each with its own unique history and charm. The selection of vintage and retro items included furniture, decorative objects, works of art, books, toys, porcelain, lamps, clocks, collectibles, and more.

This portion of the event also included free restoration workshops, as experts taught attendees how to restore and recover vintage pieces, as well as the best techniques and tips to preserve furniture and objects from a time long past. The programme also included various craft activities for the more creative-minded visitors, like the bobbin lace exhibitions featuring the associations of La Palma and Fuente Álamo.

Classic vehicles take centre stage: A ‘museum on wheels’

On the other hand, RetroAuto, a Classic and Antique Vehicle Show was a “museum on wheels”, according to IFEPA. The show united more than 200 classic and vintage vehicles, attracting motor enthusiasts from all over the region. The selection included cars, trucks and motorcycles of different eras and models.

Some of the main attractions were a Ford truck from the 1920s, as well as several tractors linked to the first steps of agricultural modernisation during the 1950s. The collection also included thousands of parts, spares, and accessories for the restoration and conservation of historic vehicles.

Local clubs showcase their passion for classic cars

Local clubs and associations passionate about the world of antique vehicles also participated, holding workshops, activities, and chatting with other attendees to share knowledge and excitement about the incredible vehicles at the event. One such association was the Murcian Association of Friends of the Railway, which presented several railway models and brought the evolution of this mode of transport, as well as their passion for it, closer to the public.

Celebrating a successful edition, and looking ahead to 2027

Taking place from Friday, September 25 to Sunday, September 28, the event was a smash success, seeing 12 per cent more participation than in the previous edition. Classic vehicle fans, history buffs, and curious newcomers in Torre Pacheco left the event even more knowledgeable and excited about this fascinating and widely celebrated hobby.

Organisers are already looking forward to the next edition of the double event, which will be held from September 24 to 26, 2027.