ABOYNE – Nothing says summer like a classic car and to take advantage of the last breath of summer, the Wellington County Museum and Archives is hosting the 46th annual Antique and Classic Car Show.
The event is slated for Aug. 28 from 1 to 4pm on the front lawn outside the museum. Anyone and everyone is welcome to attend.
And just about any vehicle can be part of the show as well.
“There is no year or make restrictions, nor does it have to be a car,” states an Aug. 17 press release.
“If you have a truck, van, or motorbike that you would like to display, feel free to do so.”
Katie Clarke, program assistant, said in an interview that many of the people displaying their vehicles have done so from the get-go.
“A good portion of people who come were at the first show,” she said.
“It was started by local car clubs and enthusiasts who just showed up. Eventually the museum took it over.”
George Milne, a longtime resident of Centre Wellington who now lives in Cambridge, told the Advertiser that for years he organized the event.
The show was started by the Historical Automobile Society of Canada, Central Region, Milne noted.
While most of the cars are from the 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s, Clarke said there are no restrictions in that way.
“Most are from that era, but we also get a few modern sports cars. It’s always a good afternoon,” she said.
With many car shows and rod runs cancelled during the pandemic, Clarke said last year’s event attracted 700 vehicles.
“I think we had so many because it was the first after COVID,” she said.
“We usually get between 300 and 700 cars for the show, though. Some will come and go, and others will stay the entire time.”
Vehicle registration begins at 11am on site. There is no cost to park or register for the day.
Admission is by donation and allows access to displays inside the museum as well.
The event runs rain or shine. Schmecken BBQ will be on site offering food and drinks for purchase. The Fergus Brass Band will be performing from 1:30 to 2:30pm.
Visitors are welcome to bring their own food for a fun picnic on the lawn. There will be a scavenger hunt for the kids.
At 3:30pm, awards will be presented for Best in Show, Best Finish and Best Interior.
For more information, visit www.wellington.ca/museum.
