Take to the Streets in Your Favorite Car
All across America the warmer weather inspires people to head outside and take in the sunshine. The car community is no exception because now is the start of “cruise-in” season. Whether it is along Main Street USA or outside of your favorite neighborhood restaurant, car enthusiasts are taking their local streets and showin’ off their rides.
The Car is King at the Local “Cruise-In”
When you think of “cruising” most people flash back to the scene from the 1973 classic movie American Graffiti, where all of those wonderful ‘50’s hotrods paraded slowly up and down the main strip in Modesto, CA. Today “cruising” is done mostly via “cruise-ins.” Local car enthusiasts get together weekly or monthly at a specific location to show off their wheels and talk shop. The one thing that remains top of mind is that the car is still king.
Cruise-in vs. Car Show
What is the difference between a cruise-in and a car show? It’s all a matter of size and attitude. A cruise-in is a laid back three to four hour social gathering for just about anyone who appreciates a nice looking car. It is a small event with no entry fees and pretty much any kind of car is welcome. A car show on the other hand is a larger all day event with entry fees, class divisions for cars and, of course, judging. Think of it like this: a cruise-in is low stress; a car show can get the blood boiling a little hotter.
(Photo courtesy of www.sacbee.com)
Make Mine a Cruise-in
For the lazy days of summer, make mine a car cruise-in. Folks stroll around admiring the wide assortment of automobiles on display and striking up conversations with owners or other car enthusiasts along the way. It’s a family atmosphere. Many cruise-in events are held along local main street where spectators can wander into stores and restaurants when they aren’t out kicking the tires on their favorite hotrod.
Break out the Lawn Chair and Talk Cars
Sometimes called “show and shine” events because that’s about all someone has to do to enter their car into one of these gatherings, entry fees are rare. If there is one it’s usually to raise money for a local charity. All you have to do is park your car, set up your lawn chair and enjoy yourself. The whole purpose of the cruise-in is to get together with your neighbors and talk cars. It’s about as low stress as it gets when showing off your car.
Is There a “Cruise-in” in Your Town?
From Middletown, CT and the "Cruise Night on Main" to the "Back to the 50's Car Cruise" in La Mesa, CA, you can literally find a cruise-in happening pretty much anywhere in the U.S. starting in May right through to September. Check out www.carshowfinder.org to find a listing of some of the cruise-ins and car shows in your state. Heck, plan a summer road trip and hit a few along the way. Start off with the "2015 ShrinersFest" in Evansville, IN at Riverfront Plaza on Friday, June 26. Finish up in Jacksonville, FL on the third Tuesday in July for the "Jax Beach Classic Car Cruise" . Think of the new friends you can meet along the way … not to mention the cars. Whoa, momma!
Cruise-Ins – Great Way to Spend a Summer Evening
Summertime and the living is easy! Why polish that classic of yours if you don’t show it off once in a while? Get out and find a local car cruise in your community. Connect with your fellow gearheads. Bring the entire family. It’s a great way to spend a summer evening.
Collector and Classic Car Insurance for Less
Worrying about your car insurance is no way to enjoy your summer. Let our friendly staff at Classic Auto Insurance help you find the right policy for your needs. Visit our website at www.classicins.com and see how we can help safeguard your dream car.
