Classic car shows are the lifeblood of the classic car community. I am not talking about the big commercial shows but the small shows held in parks and towns on almost every weekend. Like the Elland Festival of Speed which I attended last weekend.
Whether you visit the shows or exhibit at them, classic car shows are essentially a social experience. Very few of our number polish our cars just to sit and stare at them, we want to share our cars and their stories.
Organising these shows is not a simple matter, there is sponsorship to raise, venues to find and of course exhibitors to attract. And its not always fun, there are always people complaining, from exhibitors about the event or members of the public objecting because their park is full of cars, its never plain sailing.
I attended The Elland Festival of Speed this weekend which was typical of these events. Organised and staffed by volunteers it was well attended by exhibitors and visitors. In fact the variety and quality of the exhibitors was excellent.
It is easy for those outside our community to dismiss these shows as a bunch of car mad nutters getting together for a chat, but they are so much more than that. These shows provide a number of benefits which we should be promoting to potential supporters, especially if those funders are public sector bodies such as tourism departments.
On a basic level these shows allow enthusiasts get together and share knowledge and experience. They also provide inspiration to complete that stalled project and recruit new enthusiasts to our hobby. An event in a town centre can also bring increased footfall and consumer spend to struggling shops. For families a town centre or park based car show provides a cheap day out and a chance to share stories about our old cars or those of our parents. Many of the events are also useful fundraisers for local charities.
But it goes much deeper. Men over the age of 50 are known not to share their feelings and find it difficult to make new friends. Once they reach 60+ their friendship circle shrinks , especially after retirement. Classic cars provide community, friendship and a sense of achievement for those men in a healthy environment.
So lets shout to all those volunteers who organise and staff these classic car events, and next time someone asks for help, why not jump in and lend a hand. You might even enjoy yourself.
well said Mike, roll on summer 👍🏼🚗🌞