Thousands descend on Orillia for 'great' classic car show
Thousands of classic vehicle enthusiasts have motored into Orillia on Saturday for the 24th annual Rotary Downtown Classic & Custom Car Show.
“It’s great to see everyone out, taking photos, asking questions, and enjoying this awesome display of cars,” said Scott Naylor, who brought his vintage Canada Post vehicle to the show.
The show features more than 400 classic cars, trucks, vans, and even buses, and is expected to draw up to 25,000 people.
“Today has been great — good people, good weather, and even a great car show,” said Allan Lafontaine, executive director of the Orillia and District Chamber of Commerce and one of the organizers of this year’s event.
In addition to vehicles, the show features live music, food vendors, a small kids’ village, and more.
“As a kid, I’d go to car shows all the time, and now that I’m showcasing a car … it’s just a great event to attend,” said Naylor.
After last year’s show, the Downtown Orillia BIA decided it was time to pass the torch. After getting an offer and considering everything, the Rotary Club of Orillia announced it would take over as lead organizer and have the BIA as an event partner.
“When the opportunity came along to become the official organizer of the Downtown Classic & Custom Car Show, we jumped at the chance and we’re confident that we can put on one of the best car shows ever,” noted Sarah-Jane VandenBerg, Rotary Club of Orillia president.
During the show, Lafontaine echoed the enthusiasm of VandenBerg.
“It’s been great ever since we’ve taken it over. We’ve learned lots and are pleased to offer the event going forward here in Orillia.”
The show runs until 5 p.m.
“It’s great to see everyone out, taking photos, asking questions, and enjoying this awesome display of cars,” said Scott Naylor, who brought his vintage Canada Post vehicle to the show.
The show features more than 400 classic cars, trucks, vans, and even buses, and is expected to draw up to 25,000 people.
“Today has been great — good people, good weather, and even a great car show,” said Allan Lafontaine, executive director of the Orillia and District Chamber of Commerce and one of the organizers of this year’s event.
In addition to vehicles, the show features live music, food vendors, a small kids’ village, and more.
“As a kid, I’d go to car shows all the time, and now that I’m showcasing a car … it’s just a great event to attend,” said Naylor.
After last year’s show, the Downtown Orillia BIA decided it was time to pass the torch. After getting an offer and considering everything, the Rotary Club of Orillia announced it would take over as lead organizer and have the BIA as an event partner.
“When the opportunity came along to become the official organizer of the Downtown Classic & Custom Car Show, we jumped at the chance and we’re confident that we can put on one of the best car shows ever,” noted Sarah-Jane VandenBerg, Rotary Club of Orillia president.
During the show, Lafontaine echoed the enthusiasm of VandenBerg.
“It’s been great ever since we’ve taken it over. We’ve learned lots and are pleased to offer the event going forward here in Orillia.”
The show runs until 5 p.m.