9 Award Categories
Tap a category to preview the vibe.
About the Heatwave Awards
Built for the builders, daily drivers, and die-hard fans of diesel culture — honoring standouts across craft, creativity, and the spirit of the scene.
- What we celebrate: craft, presentation, innovation, and story.
- How many awards: nine categories, including Best Of Show and Photographer’s Choice.
- Why it matters: the builds (and builders) that push the culture forward.
Who Can Compete & How Judging Works
Everyone with a registered show vehicle is eligible. Categories are assigned by our team at check-in; special call-outs (like Tire Shredder) are entered during event programming.
- Eligibility: registered show vehicles; basic show standards apply.
- Judging panels: Cold Front Diesel Team and guest judges.
- Scoring: fit & finish, execution, originality, presentation, and impact.
Note: Photographer’s Choice and Tire Shredder follow unique criteria described in their description.