As the sea breeze sweeps through the engine of time, the roar of a century-old automotive industry is about to echo through Sanya. This is no ordinary car gathering; it is a love letter to the romance of machinery. The 2026 China Vintage Car Carnival · Ice Cream Cone Vintage Car Festival is officially set to take place—a seaside retro extravaganza blending vintage markets, live music, and classic cars, soon to kick off in full swing in Sanya!

🍦 The Legend Begins: The Ice Cream Cone Called “Jianzi”

Behind this carnival lies a “sweet physics” miracle that has traveled across the seas for 70 years. In 1956, on the Le Mans circuit in France, a Ferrari 250GT was on the verge of retiring from the race. At the last possible moment, a mechanic rolled an ice cream cone dropped by a child into a cone shape and inserted it into the overheated valve cover—miraculously reviving the engine.

Today, this legendary ice cream cone has come ashore in Sanya, where it has been given a cute and cuddly name—“Jianzi.” Playful and mischievous, he wears patched socks and loves nothing more than lounging on the hood of an old car to soak up the sun. This April, “Jianzi” is rallying the troops in Haitang Bay, calling on all old souls who still hold onto their childlike wonder to join him and reconnect with the version of themselves that never quite grew up.

🏁 Key Schedule Guide: Everything You Can Imagine About Speed and Freedom

Day 1: Classic Departure, A Trip Down Memory Lane (April 16)

13:00–14:00 The parade kickoff ceremony officially begins.

14:00–17:30 The grand city-wide scenic highway parade begins—watch as classic vintage cars become the city’s most stunning sight.

5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: The parade concludes, and visitors can stop to admire and take photos up close.

Day 2 – Day 4: Beach Carnival, Day and Night Revelry (April 17–19)

Starting at noon each day, the Beach Carnival opens its doors. It’s not just about cars—this is the epicenter of retro culture!

Daytime Activities (12:00/13:00–18:00): Wander through the “Retro Enthusiasts’ Market” and collect stamps at stalls throughout the venue. On the 17th, enjoy an indoor classic car exhibition; on the 18th, witness the Mobile Modification Art Awards (Modified Cars); and on the 19th, experience the Super Fun Track Day.

Nighttime Music Frenzy (6:00 PM–9:00 PM): The later it gets, the wilder it gets! On the 17th, enjoy the Retro Rock Music Festival and the Bassquake Midnight Session; on the 18th, experience Jianzi’s Golden Rap Show and the Electro-Night Wave; and on the 19th, dive into the Rock Frenzy Night and the Engine Rebirth Electronic Pulse PAR… With a different musical extravaganza every day, unleash your dopamine!

📝 Event Details

Event Name: 2026 China Classic Car Carnival · Ice Cream Cone Classic Car Festival

Event Dates: April 16–19, 2026

Main Venues: Sanya Haitang Square (Beach Carnival Retro Party) and Sanya Ring Road (Parade)

Pay homage to the classics, reignite the wave. Bring your retro gear—we’ll see you amidst the roar of engines at Haitang Square!