What Is the MOONEYES Christmas Party?
The MOONEYES Christmas Party is one of the most beloved automotive celebrations in the world. Every year, car enthusiasts from across the globe gather to enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience that blends classic car culture with holiday spirit. The event takes place in Yokohama, Japan, and it has grown into a legendary gathering over the decades.
MOONEYES is a company with deep roots in hot rod and custom car culture. Founded by Dean Moon in California, the brand later expanded to Japan and built a passionate following there. The annual Christmas Party reflects that passion perfectly. It is not just a car show. It is a full-scale automotive festival that includes drag racing, live music, vendor stalls, and much more.
For 2026, the event is scheduled for December 12. If you are a fan of custom cars, hot rods, or vintage drag racing, this is a date you will want to mark on your calendar right away.
MOONEYES Christmas Party 2026: Key Event Details
Before diving into the full schedule, here is a quick overview of the essential details for the 2026 event.
| Detail | Information |
| Event Name | MOONEYES Christmas Party 2026 |
| Date | December 12, 2026 |
| Location | Yokohama, Japan |
| Venue | Honmoku Futo (Honmoku Pier) |
| Event Type | Car Show, Drag Racing, Live Music |
| Typical Hours | Morning to Evening (approx. 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM) |
| Ticket Availability | Online and at the gate |
These details are based on the established format of previous MOONEYES Christmas Party events. However, always check the official MOONEYES website for any last-minute changes or updated announcements closer to the date.
Where Does the Event Take Place?
The MOONEYES Christmas Party is held at Honmoku Futo, which translates to Honmoku Pier, in Yokohama. This waterfront venue is a perfect setting for a large-scale automotive event. The open pier space allows for a wide drag strip layout, generous car show areas, and plenty of room for thousands of visitors to move around comfortably.
Yokohama is Japan’s second-largest city and is easily accessible from Tokyo. Therefore, visitors traveling from abroad often find it convenient to base themselves in either Tokyo or Yokohama during their trip. The venue itself is accessible by public transport, though many attendees choose to drive their own custom vehicles to the event.
Additionally, the waterfront location gives the event a unique atmosphere. The combination of sea air, roaring engines, and classic car aesthetics makes it a truly memorable experience, even for those who attend every single year.
The Car Show: A Display of Rolling Art
One of the biggest highlights of the MOONEYES Christmas Party is the car show. This is where builders and collectors bring their finest machines to display for the public. The variety of vehicles on display is remarkable.
Attendees can expect to see:
- Traditional hot rods with polished chrome and candy-colored paint
- Custom kustom cars inspired by 1950s and 1960s American style
- Vintage dragsters built for straight-line speed
- Rat rods with rough, industrial aesthetics
- Classic motorcycles and custom choppers
- Japanese domestic vehicles with custom bodywork and engine builds
The car show is open to all attendees and is included in the general admission ticket price. Furthermore, many of the vehicles on display have won awards at major events around the world. Walking through the show field feels like stepping into a living museum of automotive art.
Builders travel from the United States, Europe, and across Asia to show their work at this event. In fact, having your car accepted into the MOONEYES Christmas Party display is considered a major honor in the custom car community.
Drag Racing: The Heartbeat of the Event
While the car show draws admiration, the drag racing brings the noise. The drag strip at Honmoku Pier is a core part of the MOONEYES Christmas Party experience. This is where engines roar, tires smoke, and the crowd holds its breath.
The drag racing format at this event is typically bracket-style, meaning vehicles compete against others in their class based on predicted times. This creates fair and exciting competition across a wide range of vehicles.
Here is a general breakdown of typical drag racing categories:
| Category | Description |
| Hot Rods | Traditional American-style hot rods |
| Customs | Modified classic cars with unique builds |
| Bikes | Custom motorcycles and choppers |
| Street Cars | Modified daily drivers and Japanese domestic vehicles |
| Exhibition Runs | Special showcase passes for crowd entertainment |
The exhibition runs are particularly popular with the crowd. These passes often feature some of the most powerful and visually spectacular cars at the event. Additionally, the sound of supercharged engines echoing off the pier walls creates an unforgettable atmosphere.
Drivers who wish to make a pass on the drag strip typically need to register in advance. However, some walk-in spots may be available on the day, depending on the event schedule and available time slots.
Event Schedule: What to Expect on December 12, 2026
The MOONEYES Christmas Party runs as a full-day event. Below is an approximate schedule based on the format used in previous years. Times may vary, so always confirm with official sources before the day.
| Time | Activity |
| 9:00 AM | Gates open, car show field opens |
| 9:30 AM | Vendor stalls and merchandise area opens |
| 10:00 AM | Drag strip registration closes |
| 10:30 AM | Drag racing begins |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch break, live music starts |
| 1:30 PM | Drag racing resumes |
| 3:00 PM | Award presentations for car show |
| 4:00 PM | Final drag racing rounds |
| 5:00 PM | Event closes, venue begins clearing |
Therefore, arriving early is strongly recommended. The car show field fills up quickly, and early arrival gives you the best chance to walk the show field before it becomes crowded. Additionally, early arrival means you can secure a good viewing spot near the drag strip before racing begins.
Tickets: How to Get Into the Event
Tickets for the MOONEYES Christmas Party are typically available through the official MOONEYES Japan website. They are also sold at the gate on the day of the event, though purchasing in advance is always the smarter choice.
Pricing for previous years has generally been reasonable, making the event accessible to a wide audience. Children under a certain age are often admitted free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult, though this policy should be confirmed on the official website.
Here is a general ticket pricing guide based on previous events:
| Ticket Type | Approximate Price |
| General Admission (Adult) | ¥2,000 – ¥3,000 |
| General Admission (Child) | Free or reduced price |
| Drag Racing Entry (Vehicle) | ¥5,000 – ¥8,000 per run |
| Car Show Display Entry | Varies by application |
Note that prices may change for the 2026 event. However, the event has historically offered great value for the experience it provides. Merchandise is sold separately, and the MOONEYES shop at the event is always popular with attendees looking for branded apparel and accessories.
What to Buy: Merchandise and Vendors
The merchandise area at the MOONEYES Christmas Party is a highlight in itself. MOONEYES produces a range of branded clothing, accessories, and memorabilia that are highly sought after by collectors. Limited edition Christmas Party items are released each year and often sell out quickly.
Additionally, vendors from the automotive aftermarket industry set up stalls at the event. You can find everything from custom parts and accessories to vintage posters and automotive artwork. Therefore, bringing some extra cash or ensuring your payment cards work in Japan is a good idea.
Food and drinks are also available at the venue, with a selection of stalls offering everything from Japanese street food to hot beverages, which are especially welcome on a December day.
Tips for First-Time Attendees
If you are attending the MOONEYES Christmas Party for the first time in 2026, here are some practical tips to help you make the most of the day.
Arrive early. The gates open at 9:00 AM, and the car show field begins filling up immediately. Getting there early means better photos, less crowding, and more time to explore.
Dress warmly. December in Yokohama can be quite cold, especially near the waterfront. Layer up and bring a jacket, even if the forecast looks mild.
Bring cash. While card payments are becoming more common in Japan, many vendors at events like this still prefer cash. Having Japanese yen on hand ensures you never miss out on a purchase.
Use public transport. Driving to the event can be challenging, particularly for foreign visitors unfamiliar with Japanese roads and parking systems. Trains are efficient and stop close to Honmoku.
Learn a few Japanese phrases. The event is internationally friendly, but many vendors and staff may be more comfortable in Japanese. A few basic phrases go a long way.
Why the MOONEYES Christmas Party Matters to Car Culture
The MOONEYES Christmas Party is more than just an event. It is a celebration of a lifestyle that spans continents and generations. Hot rod and custom car culture was born in post-war America, but Japan embraced it with a dedication that rivals any other country in the world.
MOONEYES Japan has been instrumental in keeping this culture alive and thriving. The Christmas Party brings together builders, collectors, racers, and fans in a way that few other events can match. Therefore, attending is not just about watching cars. It is about being part of a community.
The event also serves as a reminder that car culture is a universal language. Whether you come from California or Chiba, from Germany or Gifu, the sight of a beautiful hot rod or the sound of a drag car launching off the line speaks to something deep and primal in automotive enthusiasts everywhere.
Conclusion
The MOONEYES Christmas Party 2026 is set to be another unforgettable celebration of custom car culture. Taking place on December 12, 2026, at Honmoku Pier in Yokohama, the event will bring together some of the finest custom cars, hot rods, and dragsters from around the world.
From the sprawling car show to the thundering drag strip, from the vibrant merchandise stalls to the festive holiday atmosphere, every element of the event comes together to create something truly special. Whether you are a seasoned attendee or a first-timer, December 12 is a date worth planning around.
Get your tickets early, book your travel in advance, and prepare for a day that will leave you inspired, energized, and already looking forward to next year.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the MOONEYES Christmas Party 2026?
The event is scheduled for December 12, 2026.
Where is the MOONEYES Christmas Party held?
It takes place at Honmoku Futo (Honmoku Pier) in Yokohama, Japan.
How do I buy tickets for the MOONEYES Christmas Party?
Tickets are available through the official MOONEYES Japan website and at the gate on the day of the event.
Can I bring my car to the drag strip?
Drivers who want to race must register in advance. Limited walk-in spots may also be available on the day.
Is the event suitable for children?
The event is family-friendly. Children are often admitted free or at a reduced price when accompanied by a paying adult.
What time do the gates open?
Gates typically open at 9:00 AM. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Is there parking at the venue?
Limited parking may be available near the venue. However, using public transport is strongly recommended, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the area.
What type of cars are featured in the car show?
The car show features hot rods, custom kustoms, vintage dragsters, rat rods, classic motorcycles, and Japanese domestic vehicles with custom builds.
Are there food and drinks available at the event?
Multiple food and drink stalls operate throughout the day at the venue.
Is MOONEYES merchandise available at the event?
MOONEYES releases limited edition Christmas Party merchandise each year. It is available at the event shop and often sells out quickly.
