Roc On – The Gathering at the Roc Just Keeps Rolling
The Gathering at the Roc is a stone that keeps on rolling, and it shows no signs of gathering moss. For six years now, the event that many now simply call “The Roc” has gathered an incredible lineup of traditional-flavored hot rods and customs in Oklahoma for some late-season cruising, fun, and fellowship with like-minded hot enthusiasts. The tradition continued in fine form this year with the sixth edition of this unique event, which took place October 10-11 in and around Bartlesville and at the historic Woolaroc Ranch and wildlife preserve.
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Event organizers Jason Smith of the Hot Rod Garage and his friend Brandon McCullough had little idea how significant this show would become when they first launched it in 2020. Their goal was to have an intimate, laid-back hot rod and custom happening for like-minded enthusiasts that involved driving, showing, and lots of opportunities for hanging out and catching up. The formula was an immediate success and has become an annual highlight for many rodders.
This year, the Gathering at the Roc welcomed cars and trucks from across the country, and even a few participants and spectators from outside the U.S. While a cap on official participants keeps the event from growing too large, it’s still quite a spectacle to see so many vintage-style rides packed into the host hotel parking lot and the surrounding streets around Bartlesville. It’s even cooler to see those cars and trucks out cruising the countryside on Friday during the Reliability Run, which traveled to the towns of Dewey and Pawhuska before circling back to Bartlesville for evening activities.
The show and shine happens on Saturday at Woolaroc, the scenic and rustic 3,700-acre ranch and wildlife preserve founded by oilman Frank Phillips. It’s a great setting for a car show, where hot rods and customs can be displayed on the grass and sounds of wildlife can be heard nearby. Bucolic buildings add to the atmosphere, as does the museum of Western art, Native American artifacts, and Colt firearms that’s part of the facility.
The Gathering at the Roc wraps up Saturday afternoon with an awards ceremony comprised mostly of builder and celebrity picks, which come with come truly creative and eclectic trophies. That’s followed by more social time at the host hotel and around Bartlesville, followed by an optional church service Sunday morning before many participants begin making their way home. It’s a great way to wind down a fun and refreshing few days in Oklahoma. We’re sure that many participants are already planning their journey to the Roc in 2026. Until then, we hope you’ll enjoy some of the photos we gathered this year.
Photos: Steven Bunker
