since you mention Carlisle I am guessing you mean northeast PA.
bigger isn't always better. there are some smaller shows that are a lot of fun.
here is a short list for PA:
May 26/27 Nostalgia Drags, Beaver Springs PA.
May 31 cruise nite, Posies Rod & Custom, Hummelstown,PA
June 1 to 3 NSRA East Nats at the York fairgrounds
June 8 to 10 Gasser Reunion, Beaver Springs
June 8 to 10 Lead scene East, Biglersville,PA
June 15/16 Drive-in Movie weekend AACA museum, Hershey,
PA....a lot to see there, the new addition is open
June 22 to 24 Rod & Custom Jamboree, Harrington,DE
June 22 to 24 Latimore Valley fair, vintage racers,rods and the Eastern Museum of Motor Racing
http://pavendors.com/events/adams-county/york-springs-pa-june-latimore-valley-fair.htm
Aug 11 the Great Pottsville cruise
Aug 24 to 26 Wheels of Time Rod & Custom Jamboree
(one of my favorites) Macungie,PA
July 20 to 22, Syracuse Nationals, Syracuse , NY
(another favorite)