If you like old cars, we have good news for you: The Concord Kiwanis Club is holding its 24th annual antique and classic car show on Sept. 12 (rain date Sept. 13).
We caught up with Chris Pappas, committee chairman for the show, and got some details on what attendees can expect.
What kinds of cars will people see? The street rods and the mighty muscle cars of the '60s and '70s are popular. With 24 classes of cars, we get quite a variety of onlookers and the “I wish I kept my old car” people.
If attendees work up an appetite while perusing the cars, what kind of food will they find? We serve the most delicious Kiwanis hamburgers and hot dogs this side of the Merrimack. We have coffee and donuts for the early birds starting at 7:30 a.m.
What will the proceeds from the event be used for? Proceeds from this event have helped the NHTI Paramedic Program, under the direction of Nancy Brubaker, to purchase over $60,000 of medical equipment for training purposes. Also, the Capitol Region Food Program is a major recipient.
Is there an award that's particularly coveted by the car owners? Although we have first-, second- and third-place trophies for the 24 classes of cars, the “People's Choice Best of Show” is the most coveted and prestigious.
We noticed that there's an award for farthest distance traveled – how far away do these car owners come from? Our show has attracted cars from Canada (first-place Mustang winner) and from upstate New York (first-place original Shelby Cobra 427 V-8).
How many people usually attend? We will attract between 1,000 to 2,000 spectators, depending on the weather.
What's your favorite part of the day? This show is a fun show to organize (compared to the spring fair) that everyone enjoys – many hours of preparations for a one-day event. The beautiful custom cars, antiques, mystery cars, etc. that fill the area are a joy to see. The best part is when it's over: Then we start planning for next year's silver anniversary 25th Kiwanis Car Show.
Is there a dream car you'd like to own someday? There are many cars we would like to own, but my favorite would be a red 1965 Mustang.
Tickets to the car show are $2, free under age 12. For more information about the show or the Kiwanis Club, visit kiwanisclubofconcord.org.
