• 5:00 - 9:00 PM CAR STATIC DISPLAY - STROLL THE AVENUE, ENJOY THE SHOW, AND VISIT THE MERCHANTS
• 9:00 PM Event Ends-All Traffic Laws Enforced
RULES
• ALL NON-FOOD VENDORS LOCATED IN VINELAND CONVENTION CENTER (631 E. LANDIS AVE.)
• PARTICIPATION IS FREE - NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED!
• NO MOTORCYCLES OR BIKES (including electric bikes & scooters)
• PERIOD CORRECT CARS WITH REGISTRATION & INSURANCE ID
• NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
• NO VEHICLES MOVED ONCE PARKED
• NO PARTIALLY PRIMED VEHICLES
• NO TRAILERS IN SHOW AREA
• NO SPECIAL PARKING ARRANGEMENTS
• ALL VEHICLES MUST BE DRIVEN THROUGH GATE
• ALL VEHICLES MUST DISPLAY OFFICIAL WINDOW CARD DURING EVENT
• ALL NJ MOTOR VEHICLE LAWS WILL BE IN EFFECT & ENFORCED BY VINELAND POLICE DEPARTMENTS
• CRUISING FROM 8-9pm — ALL TRAFFIC LAWS APPLY IF
• NO BICYCLE RIDING DURING
Present the 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Landis Avenue • Vineland, NJ
Rain Date: Sunday, June 14th • 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Staging Area: Only entrance to the event is at Landis Avenue & Delsea Drive ALL VEHICLES ARE TO REPORT TO THE LANDIS AVE. & DELSEA DR. STAGING AREA THIS IS THE ONLY ENTRANCE TO BE ADMITTED! .
Prospective Friend Sponsors:
UNDER THE HOOD...
Art Director: Matthew Loeb
Advertising & Sales: Jerry duPhily
Digital Services Director: Michael O’Brian
Editorial & Research Team: Jerry duPhily
Contributing Writers: Frank Adkins, Ben Notaro, Lou Sitaras.
Contributing Photographers: Lindsay duPhily, Ben Notaro, Bob Sliwecki
Four issues published annually (Spring, Spring-Summer, Summer-Fall, Fall-Winter)
Cruising Magazine, LLC. All rights reserved.
Cruising is designed and produced by TSN Media, Inc.
Mailing and business address: 164 Christina Landing, Wilmington, DE 19801
Contacting Cruising Magazine:
Send all written correspondences to:
Cruising Magazine, c/o TSN Media, 164 Christina Landing, Wilmington, DE 19801
Phone: 302-655-6483
Email: Contact@TSNPub.com CruisingMagazine.net
Cruisers grilled hot dogs and talked cars at the annual Hot Rods and Hot Dogs Cruise held at Historic Friendship Church in Landisville, N.J. Photo by Ben Notaro
SNEAK PEEK HOT SHOWS
April 11: Brandywine Region AACA Swap Meet
New Garden Township, 299 Starr Road, Landenberg, PA 19350 8am-2pm Info: BRAACA.org
April 18: All Wheels Car Show
Delaware State Fairgrounds, 18500 N. Dupont Hwy., Harrington, DE 19952 10am-3pm (Rain date April 12) Info: AllWheelsEvents2021@gmail.com
April 22-26: Spring Carlisle
Carlisle Fairgrounds, 1000 Bryn Mawr Road, Carlisle, PA 17013; Wed-Sat: 7am-6 pm; Sun: 7am-12pm Info: (717) 243-7855; CarlisleEvents.com
May 2: Lewes British Motorcar Show
Lewes Ferry Terminal, 43 Cape Henlopen Dr., Lewes, DE 19958 11am-3pm Info: Lewes Chamber of Commerce at (302) 645-8073
May 2: 4th Annual Buena Spring Festival benefiting Tunnel To Towers Buena Historical Society, 201 Kennedy Dr., Landisville, NJ 08310 11am-4:30pm (Rain date May 3) Info: (856) 466-4654
May 3: First State Mustang & Ford Club Spring Show Fox Run Shopping Center, 102 Fox Hunt Dr., Bear, DE 19701 9am-2pm Info: FirstStateMustangAndFord.com
May 15-16: Import & Performance Nationals
Carlisle Fairgrounds, 1000 Bryn Mawr Road, Carlisle, PA 17013 Fri & Sat: 7am- 6pm Info: (717) 243-7855; CarlisleEvents.com
May 16: 5th Annual Big Jim Edwards Automotive Show
Bridgeton Riverfront, 2 E. Commerce St., Bridgeton, NJ 08302 8am registration; 10am show start (Rain date May 17) Info: (856) 207-3070
May 16: Chariots of Fire Spring Fling
Classic Auto Mall, 6180 Morgantown Rd., Morgantown, PA 19543 10am-3pm Info: (610) 322-1622; pastorweed@hotmail.com
May 16-17: Del Rods at Dover Motor Speedway
31 N. Dupont Hwy., Dover, DE 19904
8:30am-1pm
Info: (302) 222-2525
May 17: 52nd Annual Corvette Show
Milltown American Legion, 4 JFK Drive, Milltown, NJ 08850; 8:30am-3pm
Info: SpiritsOf53@verizon.net
May 24: 45th Chester County Mustang & Ford Show
Kimberton Fairgrounds, 61 Firehouse Lane, Phoenixville, PA 19460 9am-4pm
Info: TheVFMC.org/car-show
June 5-7: Ford Nationals
Carlisle Fairgrounds, 1000 Bryn Mawr Road, Carlisle, PA 17013
Fri & Sat: 7am-6 pm; Sun: 7 am-12pm
Info: (717) 243-7855; CarlisleEvents.com
June 13: Cruise Down Memory Lane
603 E. Landis Ave., Vineland, NJ 08360
5-9pm (Rain date June 14)
Info: Marvin Askins (856) 697-6306
June 20: St. John’s Lodge No. 2 Car & Bike Show
Willis Chevrolet Buick, 2707 S. Dupont Blvd., Smyrna, DE 19977
10am-2pm
Info: Rob Wright (410) 350-1132; st2secretary@stjohns-no2-de.com
July 17 & 18: 27th Annual Camaro Nationals
Classic Auto Mall, 6180 Morgantown Rd., Morgantown, PA 19543
8am-6pm
Info: CamaroNationals.org
The Story Behind Fanton Works
There’s much more to a hit TV show than meets the viewer’s eye
TBy Frank Adkins
he Motor Trend television shows have been a living room staple for most of us car junkies for several years. Many have been filmed in seemingly sterile Hollywood-style studios, while others were set in what appeared to be actual fabrication, restoration, and customizing shops. But were they real shops, or were they fake shops staffed with actors, the product of crafty television deception?
Fanton Works was the site of a No. 1-rated TV show that lasted six seasons beginning in 2014.
Photos by Frank Adkins
Of the shows filmed in those shops, Fantom Works is often regarded by fans as the most realistic. The show was set in the Fantom Works restoration shop in Norfolk, Virginia, and it is owned by Dan and Melissa Short. To be clear, the business, its owners, employees, customers, and their cars are all real. During a recent visit, along with my friend and visit facilitator, Bob Herrington, we arrived on a Friday morning to find Dan in his office rebuilding a tachometer for a customer’s Corvette and a clock for another customer’s Cadillac DeVille. He spoke with us while he worked.
“I loved cars as a kid,” he explained, “but there was no money in my family. When I was 14, I asked my dad if I could use his credit card to buy a used Honda CB750.” His father agreed. “So I bought it, and then I started figuring out how to fix it.”
In 1979, at 16, he paid off his first motorcycle, and he used the proceeds from it to buy, “the world’s fastest machine — a Honda CBX 1000. I still have it.” Soon he acquired a 1967 Camaro for a meager $1,600, but it burned two quarts of oil on the 10mile drive home. In addition to an engine overhaul, it needed interior and electrical work as well as body work and paint.
“I straightened out the spaghetti wiring and stitched up the interior and carpet,” he said. “I took a bodywork and paint course two or three times. I painted it three times to get it right, and I got an A in the course.”
Dan went into the Army in 1980, where over the next 24 years he became a Green Beret/Special Operations, Special Forces “ground pounder,” test pilot, and he ran a program building aircraft. “That led me to running my own company,” he explained. Along the way he earned his master’s degree. “They were the easiest 24 years of my life,” he joked. “Uncle Sam was very good to me.”
to be an Amtrak headed straight for us.” It is one thing to work on cars, but something else entirely to model it for a film crew multiple times while explaining each step. “In the first six cars of the first season alone we lost $250,000. We also had to learn to deal with the Hollywood types. We were number one on their network, but we were losing $50,000 per episode. All I ever asked for was to cover the cost of the show, not even to make money from it.” But that didn’t happen.
Melissa served in the United States Navy for 20 years, retiring as a Commander in 2012. She had been stationed in Jacksonville, Florida; Yokosuka, Japan; Monterey, California; Washington DC; and ultimately in Norfolk, Virginia. “She served as a Human Resources Officer, ensuring the Navy had the right people with the right skills in the right place at the right time.”
Dan and Melissa met in 1999 while attending Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey. Dan asked her to marry him after about 10 days, on their third date, and she wondered why it took him so long to ask.
Dan retired in 2005, and he and Melissa opened the business in 2006. Although they operated in the red for six years, Fantom Works survived while three competing shops in Norfolk all went out of business. They bought their current building in 2010, and the business became selfsupporting in 2016.
“The television show came along in 2013, and it began airing in 2014. But what we thought was the light at the end of the tunnel turned out
During our conversation, it was evident to me that TV Dan and real life Dan are one and the same. “There was no fake drama or stupidity. The production company wanted it — hammers flying, pranks, arguments, etc. But I said no. That’s not what we do here. By the end of our first season we were in first place (in ratings). We were the pure show — no sponsors and no drama.”
What may come as a surprise is that the Fantom Works crew did not deal directly with the network. It was a nearby production company that approached Dan and Melissa and pitched the idea of a TV show to them. They filmed a pilot, submitted it to the Discovery network, and subsequently filmed all 72 episodes over nine seasons (six years) per the terms of the contract. “I don’t think Discovery even owned a camera,” Dan quipped.
Despite losing money over the nine season duration of the contract, Dan explained that there was another unanticipated caveat of the show. “People see you in business, and especially when you have a number one TV show, and they think you print money. Then come the people who want that money, and they will destroy you to get it.” He was referring to fictitious lawsuits. “I couldn’t wait for it all to be over. I wanted to quit, but we were bound by the contract.”
Since the filming of the show ended in 2019, Dan and Melissa have been able to streamline their business. “We no longer do full restorations. A full restoration can take as much as four years and costs upward of $500,000. A lot can happen to people during that time, and they can find themselves in a position where they can’t afford to complete the job. Full restorations also aren’t profitable. Now we focus on finishing other shops’ unfinished restorations and high-performance modernization. A resto-mod could include an LS3, overdrive transmission, nine-inch axle, full suspension, etc. The turn-around time is about 90 days. Those jobs are more profitable, and the customers are happier.
“Today, things are pretty good. All the pain we went through has become an award. The show is still airing, and we have met a lot of good people because of it. When you go through these things, they are unpleasant. But looking back you realize they shaped you and made you who you are. I’m damn glad we did it, but I wouldn’t want to do it again.”
Dan and Melissa Short, owners of Fanton Works, which is still operating today n Norfolk, Virginia.
Stopping for gas on the Rapid Transit Tour was always quite a sight for the local residents. Pictured are Dave Ferro’s 1942 Dodge, Carolyn Duhaime’s 1970 Road Runner, Mike Meads 1970 Dodge Coronet R/T, and Charlie Dallas’ Plymouth Barracuda.
REFLECTIONS OF MY LIFE
ABy Lou Sitaras
s I sit here semi-retired, in my home overlooking Lake Norman, North Carolina, I’m listening to the song “Reflections of My Life." Released in 1969 by the one-hit wonder group Marmalade, the song is a search for the meaning of life amidst a changing world and evokes the universal feeling of nostalgia. I can’t help but look back at my own automotive life and the things I’ve accomplished and experienced over the years.
As a young teenager without a driver’s license, I would live my automotive life vicariously through the pages of Hot Rod , Car & Driver , Motor Trend , and other car magazines. I dreamed of driving backroads and racing down dragstrips in whatever car the writers happened to be testing. I would read every single page of the magazine, memorizing each statistic on every car I
read about, gobbling up as much knowledge as my brain could handle, probably to the dismay of my teachers who couldn’t get me to memorize a single chemical formula or remember a historic date. I was a walking anomaly. If Cars101 was the focus in school, I would have graduated with honors and earned a scholarship to Harvard.
Photos courtesy Lou Sitaras
Buying my first car with my own hard-earned money from a landscaping job was a dream that came true. The car was a red 1971 Dodge Challenger convertible with a 318 engine purchased for $1,500. Just like the articles I read, I did a comparison test between the Challenger, my friend’s 1967 Mustang hardtop with a 289 engine, and my other friend’s 1972 Camaro with a 307 engine. I won the comparison, but in all honesty, I was a bit prejudiced.
I never set out to have an automotive life, I just kept having more and more experiences with my car, all of them were firsts. Entering my very first car show was a thrill. Making my first pass down a drag strip, Englishtown Raceway, was an exhilaration that I can still feel in my bones today! I spent years visiting the dragstrips in the area — mainly Atco, Cecil County, and Maple Grove. From there I began hosting car shows for various organizations including the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, Delaware Valley Mopar Association, Upper Chichester Parks & Recreation, and Maple Grove Raceway among many others.
In 2017, I had the thrill of participating in Mopar Collector’s Guide Rapid Transit Tour, traveling throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains with 30 other classic Mopars. Even more exciting was getting the opportunity to write the feature story about the tour for the magazine. It was the first time my writing was featured in an international magazine. I had suddenly become the type of writer who I looked up to so much as a teenager. Life had come full circle for me.
Once the tour ended, I began hosting my own radio show, Rapid Transit Radio, on 92.1 FM WVLT in Vineland, New Jersey. My guest stars were such a joy to sit and talk with and thanks to the internet, the
show reached watchers and listeners throughout the world. It was a fun time and the culmination of an automotive dream. Special thanks to my good friend Ben Notaro for helping me to get started in radio.
Even more important than the cars were the people I met along my automotive journey. My close friends Amy Berry Bragg (now Amy Hosier), Brian Scott, Mike Meads, J.D. Fleece, and so many others. Included in that list are a few celebrities — Chip Foose ( Overhaulin’ ), Richard Rawlings, (Fast & Loud ), Jenni Mastriano ( Sticker Shock ), Susan Richardson (from the TV show Eight Is Enough . We both drove mid 1970s Corvettes at the time). My favorite had to be Linda Vaughn, Miss Hurst. What an angel she was! We sat and chatted for 20 minutes about anything and everything.
That brings us to today. Despite being retired, I am currently organizing a car show for the Catawba River Antique Mall in conjunction with the Catawba Pickers Antique & Artisan Show. The owner of the mall and the organizer of the event, CJ Vandiver, has a passion for antiques and a keen eye for details. Working with her and organizing this car show is another first I get the thrill of adding to my life’s automotive contribution.
I never planned on having an automotive career — it was just a hobby I was passionate about. I guess it’s true what they say though . . . if you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life. It wasn’t the plan, but I’m thrilled to say that I’m one of those people. Life sure has been good and even in my social security years, I’m still looking for and experiencing new firsts. As we age, we may be a step or two slower, but we’ll never lose the passion that ignited us as kids.
Spending time with Linda Vaughn, “Miss Hurst Shifter,” was one of the highlights of my automotive life. She was a joy to talk to and very knowledgeable about the cars she represents. This was at a car show party hosted by Brenda Walls celebrating the Ridgley Car Show.
While attending the Global Auto Salon in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, I rounded a corner and came upon automotive legends Chip Foose and Richard Rawlings chatting it up. They were happy to stop for a moment, talk a little bit, and let me grab a photo.
TRIBUTE TO A SPECIAL CAR GUY
By Ben Notaro
There are many people who have contributed to this fun hobby of ours. Many of them work tirelessly to promote and improve things for all of us guys and gals who enjoy classic, cool, and special rides. One such person was Larry Lazereff.
I had the pleasure of knowing Larry for more than 50 years. During that half-century and more, Larry and I collaborated on numerous car-related activities. Larry always had a unique insight when it came to ideas and a special ability to make our hobby appealing to everyone. He could look at an idea from every angle, and when it was finally implemented, it almost always turned out to be a home run.
I recall one day in 1993 when Larry stopped by my house and asked what I thought about putting on a cruise down the main street in the center of town here in Vineland, New Jersey. I told him it wouldn’t work. In his laidback way, he patiently explained his vision, and eventually I came around to the idea. Together we teamed up to launch the Cruise Down Memory Lane, a car event that grew to more than 1,000 rides and still continues to this day.
Larry loved all cars, but Corvettes were where I first got to know him well. I remember one night after a Corvette club meeting at a local tavern when he pulled away in his big-block ’67 Corvette. It had side pipes — very, very loud side pipes. Larry loved the rumble of fast and loud engines.
Not long after that, he planted another idea in my ear: an all-Corvette show at Wheaton Village in Millville, New Jersey. With help from the local Corvette club, the event turned into a successful and well-attended show. That was followed by his idea for the American Wheels car show, which also proved to be a tremendous success.
Larry’s crowning achievement in our hobby was building a publication called Cruising News. I remember producing a simple mimeograph newsletter when Larry stopped by and asked if I’d like a few suggestions. Soon he was running off copies on a copy machine and stapling them into a small booklet. From there, under Larry’s ownership and guidance, the publication eventually evolved into a professionally printed magazine.
Larry later passed the torch, and Cruising News grew into what is now Cruising Magazine, owned by TSN Media. Even after stepping aside, Larry continued to contribute to the publication for many years.
Never one to stop promoting the hobby, Larry also hosted a radio program on a local oldies station called Cruising With The Editor. He invited me to join him as his co-host, and it was another example of his passion for sharing the car culture with others.
Larry was a man who truly loved all things automotive. He never ran out of ideas, and he never let down the many people he knew or the friends he made along the way. I could easily write several more pages about his accomplishments, but I think you can already see the depth of his passion for cruising.
Sadly, Larry passed away at the age of 75 on February 22 of this year. He was a creative spirit who always had a good idea for our automotive hobby. He never had a bad word to say about anyone and was one of those rare people whom everyone genuinely liked.
For me, the greatest gift Larry ever gave was his friendship. He truly exemplified the meaning of that word.
Larry, my friend — cruise that endless highway in peace. And whenever I hear a rumble of thunder, I’ll know it’s you revving up that big block of yours.
Car Guys Gathering
It is said that a great way to start your day is with a hearty breakfast. So what could be an even better way to start your day than sharing breakfast with car friends?
The Old Farts Car Club and The Krazy Kruizin Misfits got together on March 10 at the Meadows Diner in Blackwood, New Jersey for a group breakfast that made for a fun way to start the day.
There are many car gal and guy breakfasts held monthly all year long, offering a great way to start your day with a good meal, great conversation, and time spent with fellow cruisers. If you’re interested in joining a breakfast gathering in your area, just ask a fellow cruiser and they’ll point you in the right direction.
— Text: Ben Notaro / Photos: Robert Sliwecki
Evergreen Dairy Bar Cruise
The Evergreen Dairy Bar on Rt. 70 in Vincentown, New Jersey, hosts a weekly event that draws cruisers from across the area. The cruise is held year-round, with participants bringing out their rides whenever Mother Nature cooperates.
Cruisers gather early on fair-weather Tuesdays to secure a parking spot and partake in a cruise that features a wide variety of rides.
Evergreen Dairy Bar offers great food, dairy treats, and is the place to be on a weekday night while enjoying your special ride. It’s another great place to enjoy the endless summer of 2026.
— Text: Ben Notaro / Photos: Robert Sliwecki
Gateway Cars and Coffee
Gateway Classic Cars held its monthly classic cars and coffee on a very crisp day in February. Their “Caffeine and Chrome” meets always includes plenty of hot brews and delicious donuts for participants to enjoy.
Their Runnemede, New Jersey location hosted the 2026 opener, where cruisers came out not only for some treats, but also take in the cool automobile eye-candy on display and available for purchase.
Spring Cruise Launch Luncheon
The weather forecast called for a temperatures in the high seventies, with bright, inviting sunshine sun is bright and inviting —perfect for a car gathering. Enter a crew of cruisers who staged an informal get-together at Sal’s Pizza in Mantua, New Jersey. The perfect weather and the smiles of the cruisers made for a great informal introduction to the upcoming seasonal gathering of Mondays in Mantua.
By the way, the food was great and the cruisin’ vibes were in high gear.
— Text: Ben Notaro / Photos: Robert Sliwecki
— Text: Ben Notaro / Photos: Robert Sliwecki
Cruisin’ In Winter
During the off season of car activities, cruisers usually look for something automotive to keep the “juices” flowing. A few cruisers got together and made an appointment to go for a tour of a professional restoration facility. They agreed that watching a show-quality ride being constructed and being able to ask the proprietor questions can be a very motivating thing.
Hot Rods and Hot Dogs
The family barbecue is always a great time for charcoal-grilled hot dogs, desserts, and enjoying good company. Last September, members of the cruising car “family” gathered at the Historic Friendship Church in Landisville, New Jersey for their “Hot Rods and Hot Dogs” car cruise. The historic building on this site was constructed when Thomas Jefferson was President of our great country.
Enter Tom Rightler who is the owner/operator of Mid-Atlantic Muscle Cars located in Bridgeton, NJ. Rightler is no stranger to restoring muscle cars and has animpressive list of clients and accomplishments. It’s also safe to say his passion for the Chevelle served as special inspiration.
8 AND 9 INCH
While at his shop, one guest (Jim Solomon) presented Rightler with his watercolor artwork depicting Rightler’s reconstructed General Lee. A walk-through had guests checking out an area that had an original contemporary Shelby Cobra frame ready for the body (as well as related parts) and assembly to be completed.
What makes this cruise unique is that the cruisers cooked their own hot dogs over an open fire and were treated to all kinds of desserts and sodas.
This one-of-a-kind cruise is also very special because it’s free to participants, with the food and hospitality compliments of the Friends Historic Church. Hot dogs, apple pie, and cool cars always make for a family-friendly, fun gathering.
— Text & Photos: Ben Notaro
Visiting a shop that specializes in classic and specialty rides is a great way keep the spirit alive and get to see another side of our hobby. Check out Mid-Atlantic Muscle Cars at midatlanticmusclecar.com
WE SELL NEW AND REBUILT 8” & 9” Ford Third Members, all parts in stock
Mr. Bill’s Cars & Coffee
It’s mid-winter and cruisers are ready to start ushering in the cruising season. One of the early gatherings took place on February 14 at Mr. Bill’s Richman’s Ice Cream & Burger Company in Hammonton, New Jersey, where cruisers came out to enjoy a hot cup of coffee and some fine food.
To make the event more special, it was Valentine’s Day. There was plenty of love for bringing out rides and ushering in the new cruising season.
Roma Pizza Car Gathering
Car guys and gals enjoy the friendships and socializing that are a part of the cruising scene. What better way to enjoy a car outing than with a luncheon … car cruise style.
Cruisers came out to enjoy a most delicious lunch at Roma’s Pizza in West Berlin, New Jersey. This South Jersey eatery offered great specials for the car cruise luncheon and that Italian hospitality sets the stage for their upcoming fun cruises.
— Text: Ben Notaro / Photos: Robert Sliwecki
— Text: Ben Notaro / Photos: Robert Sliwecki
EVENT LISTINGS
Area CRUISES
Cruising Magazine makes every effort to ensure all listings are correct. However, event listings are subject to change. Please call ahead to avoid a wasted trip. ►
Every Monday year-round
Mighty Joe’s Cruise Nights
Mighty Joe’s Gas Grill & Deli 1231 Route 206, Shamong, NJ 08088
5pm-Close
Good food, good friends, cool cars. Info: (609)268-0303
Every Tuesday through October
Kent Island Cruisers Cruise Nights
Rita’s Italian Ice, 210 Kent Landing, Kent Island, MD 21666
6-8pm
Weather permitting. Come on out to Rita’s Ice on Kent Island and see what old rides show up!
Second Tuesdays through October
Salem County Road Knights Cruise Night
Pat’s Pizzeria, 102 South Broadway, Pennsville, NJ 08070
5-8pm
Get ready to rev up your engines and shine those wheels! Pat’s Pizzeria transforms into a hub of car and motorcycle enthusiasts. As a special treat, every car, or motorcycle entry receives a complimentary slice of pizza and a small fountain drink to kick off the night!
Info: Brian at (856) 287-6766
Third Tuesdays April through September
Delaware Valley Road Runners (DVRR) Cruise Night
Falls Township Community Park 9061 Mill Creek Rd, Levittown, PA 19054 5-8pm
Handicap accessible, food, kids, music, all vehicles welcome, 25 plaques each cruise night. Come out for a great time! New members always welcome. Info: DelawareValleyRoadRunners.com
Third Wednesdays through September
South Jersey Region AACA Cruise Nights
Salem County Auto Repair 595 Salem Quinton Rd, Salem, NJ 08079
5-7:30pm
Snacks and beverages (provided by Hitchners Furniture) for all drivers who bring their special. Enjoy music by Ed Counsellor.
Info: Frank Maurer (856) 469-3181 or Martin Erdner 856-935-0537 or SJRAACA.com
Third Wednesdays June - October
Cruise Nights at the Boatyard
JP’s On The Wharf, 201 Hubbard Ave, Bowers Beach, DE 19946 4-7pm
Join JP’s Wharf and the Historical Vintage Car Club of Delaware for the seasonal car cruiseins. Bring your cars & your appetite! Cruise-ins are weather permitting, so check @jpswharf on Facebook & Instagram for updates.
Info: HVCCDe.com
Last Thursdays April - October
Cruise Nights at Rudy’s Family Restaurant
Rudy’s Family Restaurant, 17064 S. Dupont Hwy, Harrington, DE 1952 4-7pm
Join Historical Vintage Car Club of Delaware for the seasonal car cruise-ins. Bring your cars & your appetite! Cruise-ins are weather permitting.
Info: HVCCDe.com
Every Friday April - October
Street Survivors Friday Cruise Nights
To the left of Burger King by Tractor Supply, East Park Shopping Center, 7988 Crain Hwy, Glen Burnie, MD 21061 5:30-8:30pm
Beginning April 10. No Entry Fee. All vehicles welcome. Plenty of parking. Music and 50/50 every week. Car show flyers and club merchandise are available. Weather permitting. Food available at nearby establishments.
Info: StreetSurvivorsOfMaryland.com, Tom (443) 838-0948 or Mike (443) 829-9290.
Second Fridays April - October
Grotto Pizza Presents Cruise Nights
Grotto Pizza, 309 Auto Park Dr, Middletown, DE 19709 4-8pm
200 or more cars in attendance. Come out, show off your ride and enjoy food and drinks at Grotto Pizza. Rain date is always the 3rd Friday. No burnouts.
Info: (302) 983-6966 or CarShows4Nonprofits@gmail.com
EVENT LISTINGS
2nd & 4th Fridays May - September
Historic Smithville Car Cruises
Smithville Village Greene, Smithville, NJ 08205
5-8pm
Cruise on down to Smithville and hang out. Drive to the side parking lot of the Village Greene and near the red covered bridge, you will see orange cones set up. Move a cone and park your car.
Saturdays (April 11, May 16, June 6)
Chesapeake Cars and Coffee
Fisherman Village, 3032 Kent Narrow Way S, Grasonville, MD, 21638
9-11am
All makes and models welcome. Speeding, burnouts, and reckless driving not permitted.
2nd & last Saturdays starting April 25
Del Rods Cruise Nights
Greentree Shopping Center Route 8, Dover, DE 19904
5-8pm
Free, Handicap accessible, food, kids, music, all vehicles welcome, trophies.
Info: DelRodsCarClub.org
Third Saturdays April - September Fox Run Cruise
Fox Run Shopping Center, 10-412 Fox Hunt Dr (Intersection of Rts. 72 and 40), Bear, DE 19701
4-7pm
Monthly cruise hosted by Yesterday’s Chevrolet car club
Info: Mike (302) 757-3664
Last Saturdays April - October
Corvette Club Monthly Car Show & Cruise
30 Clinton St, Delaware City, DE 19706
3-6pm
Street rods, classic, antique, race, trucks and motorcycles. Bring whatever you have! No entry fees. Handicap accessible, food, kids, and music.
Info: VetteClub.org
Last Saturdays May - September Cars and Conversation
St. Paul School parking lot
250 James St, Burlington, NJ 08016 4pm-7pm
Bring your enthusiasm and your car out to St. Paul School. Enjoy a casual gathering of automotive enthusiasts! NOTE: July is reserved for the Annual St. Paul School Car Show. Info: Lisa Honnig (609) 820-2719 or George Bifano (609) 234-5135
Last Saturdays through December
Caffeine & Chrome
Gateway Classic Cars of Phildadelphia 195 E. 9th Ave, Runnemede, NJ, 08078
9am-noon
Cruise in with your collectible or daily driver, enjoy donuts and coffee (while supplies last). Open to the public, no admission fee, and family/pet friendly.
Info: Philadelphia@GatewayClassicCars.com
Fifth Saturdays (May 30, Aug 29, Oct 31)
Cruzin’ For Caffeine
March location: First Watch, 145 Grove Ln., Newark, DE, 19711
9am start
Rain or shine. Join BRAACA every month that has a fifth Saturday at different locations. Location suggestions welcome. Info: BRAACA.org
First Sundays May - November N. Wilmington Cars & Coffee
1400 Rocky Run Pkwy, Wilmington, DE 19803
8-11am
Meet in side parking lot next to the Raymour & Flanigan store. No rescheduling if it rains. No burnouts or revving of engines permitted.
First & Third Sundays through November VFW Cruise-In
VFW Post 5118, 355 Glebe Rd, Easton, MD 21601
9-11am
Socialize and connect with other car enthusiasts. All years, makes, models & flavors are welcome.
Info: Don (410) 463-0542
Third Sundays April - October
Greenhill Car Wash Cars & Coffee
Point 40 Diner, 761 US-40 Monroeville, NJ 08343
9-11am
Take the cover off you ride and come out to enjoy a hearty breakfast with good company, along with music.
Info: Cyrus at (856) 628-7350 or cyrus.zaluske@novolex.com
May 1 (Friday)
Cruise Nite presented by Greenhill Car Wash 890 Middletown Warwick Rd, Middletown DE, 19709
4-8pm
Come out and show off your ride while enjoying conversation and good food.
Info: LaBarre Everette at (302) 983-6966 or CarShows4Nonprofits@gmail.com
EVENT LISTINGS
Area SHOWS
Cruising Magazine makes every effort to ensure all listings are correct. However, event listings are subject to change. Please call ahead to avoid a wasted trip. Check www.CruisingMagazine.net for rainout updates. ►
April 11 (Saturday)
15th Annual Steakouts Car Show 85 Harding Hwy, Elmer, NJ 08318 1pm-3pm
April 18 (Saturday)
South Jersey Mopar Connection 2026
Spring Kick-Off Car Show
Raymour & Flanigan, 6115 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
Rain date May 3
Registration starts at 10:30am; show starts at 1pm. Pre-registration fee $10; day-of fee $15. First 50 cars registered receive a commemorative dash plate. Food, three full bars, live music, vendors, yard games and family-friendly activities. Spectators free. Info: SteakoutsHP.com/pittsgrove/events
April 11 (Saturday)
Brandywine Region AACA Swap Meet 299 Starr Rd, Landenberg, PA 19350 8am-2pm
10am-3pm
Open to all makes and models of cars and trucks. Registration from 9-11am. Day of show registration fee: $20. DJ, trophies at 2:30 pm, dash plaques to first 125 cars, discount food coupons, door prizes. Portion of proceeds donated to local charity. Info: (609) 287-1527
April 22- 26 (Wednesday- Sunday)
Wheels & Wine Wheels & Wine
Rain or Shine event. Vendor set-up begins at 6am. Automotive related items. One vendor space is two parking spaces (18x18). Spaces assigned upon arrival. Separate car display/ corral $20.
Info: BRAACA.org
April 18 (Saturday)
Delaware Cops & Rodders Car Show Glasgow Park, 2275 Pulaski Hwy, Newark, DE 19702 9am-2pm
Pre-registration fee $15 by April 13; $20 after and day-of. Antiques and hot rods, classics, modified, police vehicles and SWAT trucks. Trophies in several categories, spectator favorite, and Best in Show. Free spectator entry; pets with responsible owners are welcome.
Info: JHawkins@TheRGWFoundation.org
April 18 (Saturday)
3rd Annual All Wheels Car Show
Delaware State Fairgrounds 18500 N. Dupont Hwy, Harrington, DE 19952 10am-3pm
Rain date April 12
All vehicles welcome — classics, customs, lifted trucks, semis, motorcycles and more. Free onsite registration. Donations to charity appreciated. DJ, food trucks, awards, expo vendors, family-friendly fun.
Info: AllWheelsEvents2021@gmail.com
Spring Carlisle Collector Car Show & Auction Carlisle Fairgrounds,
100 Bryn Mawr Road, Carlisle, PA 17013 Wed-Sat: 7am- 6pm, Sunday: 7am-12pm Presented by Hemmings, this is a must-visit event for automotive enthusiasts. While exploring the grounds and 8,100 vending spaces, you will marvel at one of the largest automotive flea markets in the world. Carlisle is the place to purchase any of the 2,000 vehicles within the car corral and deal directly with the car owner to work out the best price. Spring Carlisle also includes a two-day collector car auction powered by Carlisle Auctions. Info: (717) 243-7855 or CarlisleEvents.com
April 25 (Saturday)
Olde Stone House Village 18th Annual Classic Car Show
Olde Stone House Village, 208 Egg Harbor Rd, Sewell, NJ 08080 10am-2pm
Rain Date April 27
More than 200 classic cars and 13 trophy classes. Enjoy food, music, basket auction, and historic house tours. Registration begins at 8:30am. Pre-registration fee $10 by April 11; $15 day-of. All proceeds will be used towards Stone House restoration project. Info: (856) 981-3096
North Jersey’s largest antique advertising show featuring over 100 vendors from 10 different states. Automobilia, Petroliana, and all types of antique advertising items.
Info: Chris at (551) 404-4046 or MetroPetroShow@gmail.com
April 26 (Sunday)
Wheels of Wayne Car Show
North Wayne & West Avenues, Wayne, PA 19087
12:30pm-3pm Rain date May 3
Enjoy antique, modern, classic, & custom cars, trucks, and motorcycles, along with entertainment, food, and more for the whole family. In cooperation with the Wayne Business Assocation.
Info: Radnor.com/WOW
May 1-3 (Friday-Sunday)
44th Annual Englishtown Spring Swap Meet & Auto Show
Raceway Park, 230 Pension Rd, Englishtown, NJ 07726
Fri & Sat 7am-6pm; Sun 7am-4pm
Hundreds of cars, vendors and car parts. Adults $12; kids under 12 free. Free parking, no pets. Saturday & Sunday any year show vehicle welcome; registration 8am-12:30pm (weather permitting). Top ten trophies each day. Rain or shine event.
Info: Paul at (732) 446-5154 or RacewayPark1966@racewaypark.com
May 2 (Saturday)
7th Annual LKQ Car Show
Keystone Automotive, 39 Phoenix Dr, West Deptford, NJ 08086
10am-2pm
Top 40 judged show. Judged by the South Jersey Camaro Car Club. $15 per vehicle, day of show only. All makes and models, domestic and foreign cars. Music, 50/50, food and drink available. Benefits veterans, children and animals.
Held on over 5 green acres, with more than 125 crafters & artisans, antique dealers, food trucks, 50/50 raffles, horse & carriage rides, petting zoo and more Music and WVLT-92.1 live broadcast and more. Open to all American and foreign vehicles, (cars trucks and motorcycles),
all years welcome. Car show sponsored by Lilliston Auto Group. 30 + trophies plus dash plaques offered. Registration $20 (from 11am1pm); trophies at 4:30pm. Benefits Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
Info: (856) 466-4654
May 2 (Saturday)
Lewes British Motorcar Show
Lewes Ferry Terminal
43 Cape Henlopen Dr, Lewes, DE 19958 11am-3pm
Co-sponsored by the Lewes Chamber of Commerce and the British Car Club of Delaware and features a wide array of classic British vehicles. Show is supported by Southern Delaware Tourism. $5 at the gate. Advance registration only. Coincides with the Spring Merchants’ Sidewalk Sale in Historic Lewes Commercial District.
Info: (302) 645-8073
May 2 (Saturday)
Cruisin’ Classics Chestery County’s 41st Annual Car Show
Caln Village Shopping Center
3947 W. Lincoln Hwy, Downingtown, PA 19335 9am-2pm
Rain date May 2
All vehicles welcome. Enjoy music, food and refreshments. Pre-registration $15; day-of $20. Dash plaques to first 100 registrants; trophies to the Top 30 cars. Info: CCCC1985@comcast.net
May 3 (Sunday)
First State Mustang & Ford Club Spring Show
Fox Run Shopping Center
102 Fox Hunt Dr, Bear, DE 19701 9am-2pm
Rain date May 17
Sponsored by Porter Ford Trophies for Top 25 and 11 Judged Awards. Charity auction, 50/50, and DJ. All cars must be Ford powered. Info: FirstStateMustangAndFordcom
May 9 (Saturday)
3rd Annual Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show presented by the Alloway Halloween
Parade Committee
Alloway Municipal Building
49 S Greenwhich St, Alloway, NJ 08001 10am-3pm
Rain Date May 11
Old, new, pretty, and imperfect vehicles – all vehicles welcome. Food, prizes, door prizes, and vendor show.
Info: Emily at (609) 202-0288 or AllowayHalloweenParade@gmail.com
Refreshments & restrooms available!
Vendor set-up starts at 6AM
Automotive and related items
One vendor space is 2 parking spaces (18'x18')
Spaces assigned
Separate car display/corral spaces available for $20
Checks payable to: Brandywine Region AACA
Send to: Dave Myers 318 S. Cleveland Ave, Wilmington, DE 19805
Contact at 302-230-1393
EVENT LISTINGS
May 9 (Saturday)
Reach One Teach One Car Show
Delaware State University
1200 N. Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901 10am-2pm
Scholarship fundraiser hosted by Living the Dream Corvette Club. All makes and models welcome. Car entry fee $25; free for spectators. More than 80 trophies awarded.
Info: (302) 547-4647
May 16 (Saturday)
Annual Galloway Classic Car Show
Galloway Township Municipal Complex
300 E. Jim Leeds Road, Galloway, NJ 08205 10am-3pm
Rain Date May 17
Presented by the Galloway Township Historical Society. Trophies, plaques to the first 50 participants. All classic car owners invited to participate. On-site registration; $10 donation appreciated. Free admission to the public.
Info: Jim Thompson (609) 338-7574
May 3 (Sunday)
2023 Draggin Wagons Car, Truck & Bike Show 5064 Horseshoe Pike, Honey Brook, PA 19344 11am-3pm
$15 vehicle registration at gate. Category plaques awarded and Club President’s Choice. Music, 50/50, gift basket raffle, food truck & drinks. All proceeds support local charities in the tri-county area. Please bring a nonperishable food donation.
Info: DragginWagonScc@gmail.com
May 15 & 16 (Friday & Saturday)
Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals
Carlisle Fairgrounds
100 Bryn Mawr Road, Carlisle, PA 17013 7am-6pm
This exciting event welcomes more than 1,700 imported vehicles from around the world as well as domestics, kit cars, motorcycles and trucks, and high-end performance vehicles.
Info: (717) 243-7855 or CarlisleEvents.com
May 16 & 17 (Saturday & Sunday)
Del Rods at Dover Motor Speedway 31 N. DuPont Highway, Dover, DE 19904 8:30am-1pm
This is a pre-registration only show; registration due by April 15. Fee is $25 per day and includes two free tickets to the race. Food, trophies, and dash plaques to the first 100 registered cars.
Info: Rich (302) 222-2525 or rsludge47@aol.com
May 16 (Saturday)
Kent Island Cruisers’ Annual Spring Fling Show
Western Tire & Auto, 1406 Main St, Stevensville, MD 21666 9am-1pm
Top awards by participant ballots, door prizes, 50/50, store specials and more. Registration until 11am; awards begin at 1pm. Must be present to win.
Info: (410) 643-5572
May 16 (Saturday)
Wheels fo Freedom Car Show
American Legion Canal Post 25, 2496 DuPont Pkwy, Middletown, DE 19709 9am-3pm
Presented by Volunteers 4 Veterans Delmarva. Featuring DJ Jeff Rankin, food trucks, vendors, and family-friendly activities.
May 16 (Saturday)
19th Spring BOPC Car Show
Concord Mall, 4737 Concord Pike Wilmington, DE 19803 10am-2pm
Presented by Delaware Valley Oldsmobile Club. All Buicks, Oldsmobiles, Pontiacs, & Cadillacs any year or condition. Featuring National Hurst/Olds Day; Don Glover, Hurst Engineer, scheduled to appear with display. Dash plaques, trophies, door prizes, long distance awaRd Advance registration of $15 until May 9; $20 day of show.
Info: Tom (302) 740-2454 or Don (610) 620-5050 or dvocinfo@yahoo.com
May 16 (Saturday)
Chariots of Fire Spring Fling Classic Auto Mall, 6180 Morgantown Rd, Morgantown, PA 19543 10am-3pm
Great variety of all types and classes of vehicles. 100 trophies awarded. Free tour of the Classic Auto Mall. Registration $20, plus two non-perishable food items for the food bank. Door prizes, live music by Forgiven. Info: Pastor Lawrence Weed (610) 322-1622 or pastorweed@hotmail.com
May 16 (Saturday)
Big Jim Edwards Automotive Show
Bridgeton Riverfront, 2 E. Commerce St, Bridgeton, NJ 08302
8am registration; 10am show start Rain date May 17
Presented by Life Worth Living. All types of vehicles from Jeeps/trucks to imports, exotics, cruisers, classics and motorcycles. More than 75 trophies awarded. Registration fee $20 per vehicle (incl. breakfast, lunch, unlimited drinks & vehicle entry).
Info: R. Todd Edwards (856) 207-3070 or rtoddedwards1@gmail.com
EVENT LISTINGS
May 17 (Sunday)
52nd Annual Corvette Show
Milltown American Legion
4 John F. Kennedy Dr, Milltown, NJ 08850
8:30am-3pm
Presented by the Spirits of ’53 Corvette Club. Judging starts at 11am; trophies at 2:30pm. Registration is $25; spectators free. Judging starts at 11am; trophies awarded at 2:30pm. Benefits the Ronald McDonald House. Info: SpiritsOf53@verizon.net
May 17 (Sunday)
29th Annual Ambler Auto Show
Butler Avenue, Ambler, PA 19002
1-6pm
200+ classic and modern autos and trucks. Stroll Butler Avenue, go to the restaurants and shops or grab a bite from one of the local food vendors. Show benefits Ambler Main Street. Info: AmblerMainStreet.org
May 23 (Saturday)
46th Annual Chester County Car Show
PJ Whelihans, 853 E Lancaster Ave, Downingtown, PA 19335
10am-2pm
Rain date May 24
All vehicles welcome, antique or modern. Pre-registration $20; $25 after May 10. Free for spectators. Benefits Shiners Children’s Hospital. Info: CCACC.club or Bruce (302) 593-4352 (please no calls after 9pm)
May 24 (Sunday)
45th Annual Chester County Mustang and Ford Car Show
Kimberton Fairgrounds
61 Firehouse Ln, Phoenixville, PA 19460 9am-4pm
Rain date May 25
Awards for the top vehicles in each class. $15 pre-registration; $20 day of show. Dash plaques and goodie bags for first 150 cars. Basket auction, 50/50, door prizes, food and music. Info: TheVFMC.org/car-show
May 30 (Saturday)
Down on the Farm Car & Tractor Show 1084 Bethel Church Rd, Middletown, DE 19709
8am-3pm Rain date June 14
Classic car/truck/hot rods/rat rods/tractors/ modern muscle cars welcome. Registration 8am, $20 per car, spectators free. Judging at 2pm, trophies at 3pm. Automotive/ farmrelated swap meet; $25 space fee; setup begins at 6am or night before. Food, DJ, 50/50 raffle, and giveaways. A portion of the proceeds will go to Appoquinimink Area FFA programs. Info: Bobby at (302) 287-8606 or Casey at (302) 384-2949
June 5-7 (Friday- Sunday)
Carlisle Ford Nationals
Carlisle Fairgrounds, 100 Bryn Mawr Rd, Carlisle, PA 17013
Fri-Sat: 7am-6pm; Sun 7am-12pm
Largest all-Ford show in the world which features Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Euro Fords on the 3,300+ National Parts Depot Showfield. Ford cars, trucks, and performance products will be on-site. From special guests and displays to activities and competitions, this event has it all.
Info: CarlisleEvents.com
June 5 (Friday)
10th Annual Car Show
880 Rt. 45, Woodtown, NJ, 08098 5-9pm
Presented by the Salem County Vo-Tech School & Special Services School Districts. Music, food, and family fun. $10 per show vehicle; awards presented.
Info: Randy Wentzell (856) 769-0101 ext. 5300 or RWentzell@scssd.net
June 6 (Saturday)
Delclassics Car Show
Delcastle Technical High School 1417 Newport Road, Wilmington, DE 19804
8am-1pm Rain date June 7
Open to all vehicles. Custom trophies fabricated by the students of Delcastle’s Career & Technical
Education programs. Benefits vocationaltechnical student activities. DJ and food trucks. Free spectator admission, no pets. Register your vehicle at delcastle.nccvt.k12.de.us.
Info: Tina Ramsey at (302) 995-8110 or Tony Tiberi at (302) 995-8117
June 7 (Sunday)
Hot Rods for Horses Car Show
2800 Street Rd, Warrington, PA 18976
10am-2pm
View a variety of cars, meet horses from the Special Equestrians Therapeutic Riding Center, and participate in activities including a 50/50 raffle, silent auction, and browsing local vendors. All makes, models, and years of vehicles welcome. Advance registration $15; day-of $20. Proceeds support therapeutic riding programs. Info: SpecialEquestrians.org/events/carshow
June 7 (Sunday)
Nanticoke Lenni - Lenape Tribal Nation Car Show & Pow Wow
Cumberland County Fairgrounds
3301 Carmel Rd, Millville, NJ 08332
10am-3pm
Registration from 10am-12pm. Entry & registration fee $15. Pow Wow features dancing, drumming, food, crafts and more. Trophies presented at 3pm. Benefits the Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape Tribal Nation.
Info: Harry Jackson at (856) 451-2231 or nlli.tradingpost@gmail.com
June 13 (Saturday)
Spring Fling GM Thing Show
Smithville Village Greene, Smithville, NJ 08205
8:30am-5pm
Rain date June 14
Presented by Boardwalk Covettes. Open to anything GM-powered. Pre-registration fee $15; day-of $20. Dash plaques to first 100 registrants. Free spectator admission.
Info: (609) 266-1229
June 13 (Saturday)
6th Burning Rubber Car and Bike Show
Alloway Township Municipal Building 45 S. Greenwich St, Alloway, NJ 08001 10am-2pm
All cars, bikes, Jeeps and trucks welcome. All proceeds benefit the Alloway Township Fire Company. Trophies, raffles, and food available for purchase. Pre-event registration $15, day-of-show $20.
Info: atfc19carshow@gmail.com
June 13 (Saturday)
Annual Cruise Down Memory Lane
603 E. Landis Ave, Vineland, NJ 08360
5-9pm
Rain date June 14
Stroll The Avenue, enjoy the show, visit the merchants! Open to all domestic vehicles 1974 and older. Free admission.
Info: Marvin Askins (856) 697-6306
St. John’s Lodge N o.2
S Dupont Blvd, Smyrna, DE 19977
June 20, 2026 10:00am to 2:00pm
June 13 (Saturday)
Annual Delco Cruisers Spring Car Show
Rose Tree Park, 1671 Providence Rd, Media, PA 19063
10am-2pm
Rain date June 20
Join one of the largest car shows in the area at a great facility with food vendors and one of the best car show DJs in the area. Entry fee $20, cash at gate.
Info: DelcoCruisers.org
June 14 (Sunday)
Lakes Covette Club’s 8th Annual All Vehicle Car Show 401 Rt 73 S. Marlton, NJ 08054
8:30am-1:30pm
Rain date June 28
Sponsored by Elkins Chevrolet. Pre-registration $20; day-of $25. Limited to 150 cars. One free lunch per entrant.
Info: rwlittle17@gmail.com
June 20 (Saturday)
St. John’s Lodge No. 2 Car Show & Bike Brunch Willis Chevrolet Buick 2707 S. Dupont Blvd., Smyrna, DE 19977 10am-2pm
Trophies, cash prizes, 50/50, vendors. Proceeds benefit VA, First Responders, SPCA. Pre-register: $10. $20 at the door.
Info: Rob Wright (410) 350-1132
SHIFTIN’ GEARS
By Ben Notaro • red63vetnj@comcast.net
Well, here we go with the cruising and car show season of 2026. As I’ve done since the very beginning with Cruising Magazine, I’d like to extend to my fellow car enthusiasts a very Happy New Year — though somewhat belated.
This past winter, beginning in mid-January, can best be described as the winter from hell. The eastern seaboard was hit with a snowstorm followed by ice, frigid temperatures, and freezing rain. The result was widespread cases of car guys and gals coming down with cabin fever.
For me, having an unheated and uninsulated garage limited my winter tinkering to little more than occasionally starting my Corvette and Camaro. Naturally, I had to keep the doors open enough to let the exhaust escape, but with the thermometer hovering around thirty degrees—and sometimes even lower—those small projects I wanted to tackle would have to wait.
There’s something about winter weather that gets the juices (petrol) flowing in the blood for that first drive of the season. It’s a time of anticipation when we can fire up our rides, head to a gathering, meet up with the crew, and start staking out our favorite spot with the lawn chairs. It’s a special ritual—sharing that little patch of real estate with the gang and simply talking cars.
So by the time you’re reading this newest issue of Cruising Magazine, I truly hope the weather has become a bit more user-friendly.
Speaking of starting my rides in the dead of winter, I got to thinking about how simple it is to step into the garage, disconnect the battery tender, pump the gas pedal a couple of times, and crank the old ride to life. Unlike newer cars, there isn’t an array of lights and cryptic icons blinking on the dashboard, making you wonder which symbol is about to warn you that something needs attention.
With my older vehicles, I simply check the tire pressure with a pencil-style gauge and take a good look at the tires to see how they’re faring. My newer vehicle, on the other hand, shows a diagram of all four tires with the exact pressure in each. Yet when I look at them, they all seem round and full of air just the same.
One modern feature I do appreciate, however, is the remote starter. Depending on what you drive, you can start your car with a key fob from a certain distance — or even from your mobile phone from almost anywhere in the world. That’s certainly a cool feature of modern technology.
Still, there’s something special about stepping out to wherever you’ve tucked away your car and turning a cold metal key — something most new cars no longer have. That simple act brings a classic engine to life. The first roar from the muffler and that familiar whiff of exhaust makes starting your ride after a winter’s siesta a perfect welcome to the cruising and car show season of the new year.
Department of Power: Heaven bless the Mopar deities for returning to mega horsepower via fossil fuel. You’ve got to love that dinosaur juice.
Department of Information: I’ve said it many times before: Event + thorough flyer information = clearer details for participants.
Department of Economic Development: Let’s hope car show entry fees begin to moderate. Some events are getting far too costly to participate in.
