^^^This.
Clean up the car, go to the show, support a good cause, and enjoy yourself.
After you see what's winning awards at a few shows you'll have a better idea what you're up against if you decide to go for an award. Cruise-Ins are a fun gathering, formal shows might bring out trailer queens.
American Muscle might put you with Hellcat Challengers and blown Hemis.
Open is usually for your over-the-top mods, low riders, slammed rat rods etc...