The amazing thing about the automotive hobby is that there’s a community for everyone. I recently saw a story about how someone launched a Honda CR-Vs and Coffee event that gained widespread popularity on social media. And earlier this year, there was BerettaFest, a meet-up specifically for owners of the 1987-96 Chevrolet Beretta. Then there’s Miatas at the Gap, the longest-running Mazda MX-5 Miata gathering in the country. One of the “family reunions” that I most look forward to each year is the National Acura Legend Meet (NALM).
Every year since 2005, a small but dedicated group of Acura Legend owners has assembled in a different city around the country for a few days of camaraderie, car shows, cuisine, and cruising. Here’s a look at last year’s event in Vermont.
A little background: The Legend was Acura’s flagship model beginning in 1986, but it was phased out of production after 1995 in the United States (and replaced by the 3.5 RL).
Thirty years later, the community surrounding the model remains strong. One Facebook group, for example, has grown to include 20,000 members and is home to constant dialogue.
This year’s NALM took place in Kansas City, Missouri, although, technically, the host hotel was located in Overland Park, Kansas. The festivities kicked off on Wednesday, September 16 with check-in. Events over the following few days included a visit to the Kansas City Auto Museum, “dyno” event in Grain Valley, scenic drive along waterfronts, group photo at the Liberty Memorial Tower, and car show at Quivara Park.
No trip to Kansas City would be complete without a hearty helping of BBQ. Attendees enjoyed the menu at Meat Mitch BBQ, which consisted of brisket, pulled pork, ribs, sausage, and burnt ends.
There was record turnout for both a “Legend count” and an attendee count. In attendance were over 25 Legends and 55 people, with representation coming from 20 different states. One eager 1998 Acura CL owner, Chris, drove all the way from British Columbia, Canada to be part of the festivities.
Following a catered pasta dinner, various awards were given out during the closing ceremony. The Best of Show winner for 2026 was Collin from North Carolina, who brought his stunning 1994 LS six-speed coupe. We love the “IAMLGND” license plate he’s rocking, without a doubt.
Finally, an announcement was made that NALM 2027 will be held August 11-15 in Nashville, Tennessee. Stay tuned for updates on registration when it goes live! It is guaranteed to be a Legend-ary time for all.
