Earnhardt Auto Centers Celebrates 75th Anniversary with Aerial Drone Show

Earnhardt Auto Centers, one of the oldest and most prominent privately owned auto dealer groups in the United States, celebrated its 75th anniversary with a spectacular aerial display over the Valley on September 4, 2026. The event, held at the Chandler, Arizona location, attracted more than 500 guests, marking a significant milestone for the family-owned business.

Founded by Hal Earnhardt Jr., known as "Tex Earnhardt," in 1951, Earnhardt Auto Centers has grown from a single Ford store into a formidable 17-dealership network, representing 15 different automotive brands. The celebration honored the legacy of the company and its founder, with special attention paid to the community ties that have sustained the business over the decades.

Hal Earnhardt III, one of Tex's sons, expressed gratitude for the attendance and support, stating, "It was uplifting to see such a tremendous turnout and the overwhelming love for the brand that my father built. He'd be so proud."

The evening's festivities included door prizes, souvenirs, and speeches from notable attendees such as the Mayor [Elect] and Vice Mayor of the City of Chandler, as well as representatives from Ford Motor Company. Guests left with cowboy hats and other keepsakes, including an outline of the late Tex Earnhardt, tipping his hat to the attendees, a nod to the western heritage that has been a cornerstone of the company's identity.

The highlight of the evening was the aerial drone show, visible in Chandler, Mesa, and near Old Town Scottsdale. The show, which marked the month and year of the company's founding, September 1951, began at 7:51 p.m., the exact time the company was established. This spectacle aimed to honor both Tex Earnhardt's and the company's legacy, bringing joy to viewers across the Valley.

According to Bull Earnhardt, Tex's grandson, "The idea was to include as many people as possible. So, what better way to celebrate both his and the company legacy than to end the evening with a show in the skies? We hope it brought joy to viewers across the Valley."

In addition to the celebratory events, the company also made several charitable donations to organizations such as Child Crisis Arizona, Ava's Treehouse at the Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children, Make-A-Wish Arizona, St. Mary's Food Bank, the 100 Club of Arizona, the Boys & Girls Club, and the Arizona Humane Society. These donations reflect the company's commitment to giving back to the community that has supported it for 75 years.

The celebration underscored the enduring strength and resilience of Earnhardt Auto Centers, which has remained family-owned and operated for three generations. With its "No Bull" approach and its continued focus on community engagement, the company has not only survived but thrived over the past seven and a half decades.