Rev up your engines and embark on a journey through automotive history! Introducing the Route 66 Car Show in Berwyn, IL – a must-visit event that fuels the passion of car enthusiasts and ignites a contagious energy. Picture classic cars gleaming under the sun, engines roaring with power, and a vibrant atmosphere buzzing with excitement. In this blog post, we'll be your road map, guiding you through all the twists and turns of the 2023 Route 66 Car Show and providing a comprehensive guide to make your experience unforgettable. So buckle up and join us as we explore the sights, sounds, and horsepower that await at this thrilling automotive extravaganza.
Route 66, also known as the Main Street of America or the Mother Road, holds a special place in American history and culture. This iconic highway, spanning from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, emerged in the 1920s as a vital route for cross-country travel, connecting various communities and fostering economic growth. Route 66 symbolized the American spirit of adventure, embodying the freedom of the open road and the pursuit of the American Dream.
In Berwyn, Illinois, Route 66 takes on added significance as it runs through the heart of the city, intersecting with its vibrant community and culture. The Route 66 Car Show in Berwyn pays homage to this historic highway by celebrating the classic cars, hot rods, and vintage vehicles that once cruised along its iconic stretches. Berwyn's connection to Route 66 adds a sense of nostalgia and authenticity to the car show, bringing together car enthusiasts, families, and visitors who share a love for automotive history and the enduring charm of the Mother Road.
Route 66 evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia and cultural value. It represents a bygone era, a time when road trips were filled with adventure, roadside attractions captured the imagination, and small-town America thrived along this legendary route. The Route 66 Car Show in Berwyn captures this essence, allowing visitors to relive the spirit of Route 66 and experience the rich history and cultural significance associated with this iconic highway. It's an opportunity to celebrate the heritage of American automobiles and pay tribute to the road that continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many.
The Route 66 Car Show is an annual event that revs up the automotive community, showcasing a stunning display of classic cars, vintage vehicles, and custom hot rods. The 2023 Berwyn Route 66 Car Show takes place on August 26th, 2023. The show Center is at Ogden Top & Trim, 6609 Ogden Ave, Berwyn, IL. Celebrating automotive history and culture, the Route 66 Car Show holds great significance in the hearts of car enthusiasts and collectors. This event pays tribute to the iconic Route 66, the legendary highway that symbolizes the spirit of American road trips and adventure. By bringing together a remarkable collection of automobiles that once cruised along this historic route, the Route 66 Car Show creates an immersive experience that transports attendees back in time.
The origins of the Route 66 Car Show can be traced back to the love and passion of local car enthusiasts in Berwyn, IL. What started as a small gathering of automotive enthusiasts has become a highly anticipated event, attracting participants and visitors from near and far. Over the years, the Route 66 Car Show has gained recognition and acclaim, becoming a destination for car lovers to appreciate beautifully restored classics, admire unique custom builds, and engage in lively discussions about automotive craftsmanship and heritage. The show's growth and popularity are a testament to the enduring fascination with vintage cars and the dedication of the organizers and participants who make each year's event a memorable success.
What sets the Route 66 Car Show apart from other car shows is its connection to the iconic Route 66 and the rich history it represents. The exhibition captures the essence of this legendary highway, infusing the event with a sense of nostalgia and Americana. Additionally, the Route 66 Car Show offers more than just a display of remarkable automobiles; it creates an immersive experience by incorporating live music, entertainment, food vendors, and activities for the whole family. This unique blend of automotive appreciation, cultural heritage, and community celebration makes the Route 66 Car Show a standout event in the car show circuit, attracting both seasoned car enthusiasts and curious newcomers.
The Route 66 Car Show is packed with exciting highlights and must-see attractions that will awe attendees. Look for iconic vehicles that have left an indelible mark in automotive history, such as the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, and Dodge Charger. These timeless classics represent the epitome of American muscle cars and are sure to impress car enthusiasts with their powerful engines and sleek designs. Additionally, keep your gaze fixed on the custom car category, where unique builds and modified vehicles showcase the artistry and creativity of car enthusiasts who have transformed their rides into one-of-a-kind masterpieces.
One of the true highlights of the Route 66 Car Show is the opportunity to interact with car owners and fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're an avid collector or sincerely appreciate automobiles, striking up conversations with car owners can reveal fascinating stories behind each vehicle. Discover the dedication, craftsmanship, and love that has gone into restoring or customizing these automotive treasures. Engaging with car owners and fellow enthusiasts is an enriching experience that creates a sense of camaraderie and shared passion within the car show community.
The show also pays homage to local veterans and all who have served in the military. The Route 66 Car Show hosts a special military color guard and the singing of the national anthem at the start of the show. This patriotic event kicks off a parade procession to Berwyn’s World War 1 Memorial, where attendees are welcome to visit the Memorial and witness the raising of the flag.
The Route 66 Car Show not only satisfies automotive cravings but also caters to appetites with a delightful array of food options. Attendees will find various food options, with food trucks and local vendors offering a wide selection of tasty treats. From the classic hot dogs and burgers to pizza, tacos, and ice cream, there's something to satisfy every craving. Whether you're in the mood for comfort food or exploring new flavors, the car show's food options will surely please both car enthusiasts and foodies alike.
Beyond the automotive spectacle, the Route 66 Car Show allows attendees to browse and shop for car-related merchandise. Explore the vendor booths that showcase a range of automotive products, accessories, memorabilia, and collectibles. From vintage signs and posters to model cars and specialty tools, you'll find a treasure trove of items celebrating the automotive culture. Take home a souvenir that captures the spirit of the car show, or find the perfect gift for the car lover in your life.
In addition to the cars and the food, the car show offers various entertainment and activities to keep attendees engaged. The entertainment and activities add an extra layer of enjoyment, creating a dynamic and engaging experience.
Event Schedule
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7am to 10am – Car Show Registration
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10am – Show Car Judging Begins
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10am – Military Color Guard and National Anthem at Show Center to Kick off Parade Procession to World War I Memorial Flag Raising
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11:30am to 1:30pm – Rick Saucedo, Elvis is in the House at Show Center
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2pm – Split the Pot Raffle Ticket Sales Close
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3pm to 4pm – Awards Ceremony at the Show Center
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3pm – Split the Pot Raffle Ticket Winners Announced
The Route 66 Car Show takes pride in its meticulous judging process, ensuring that every vehicle on display has a fair chance to be recognized for its outstanding qualities. A panel of experienced judges, often comprising automotive experts, enthusiasts, and industry professionals, carefully evaluates each vehicle based on various criteria. These may include overall condition, craftsmanship, originality, customization, attention to detail, and adherence to specific categories or themes.
The car show features a range of award categories, each with its own significance and prestige. From Best in Show and People's Choice to Best Restoration, Best Custom, or Best Vintage, the awards showcase car owners' and builders' diverse talents and dedication. Some categories may also honor specific makes or models, Best Import, Best Motorcycle, or Best Muscle Car. In addition to these traditional categories, special recognition may be given to exceptional cars that stand out for their unique features, historical significance, or extraordinary restoration efforts.
Winners of the Route 66 Car Show awards receive more than just bragging rights—they are also bestowed with well-deserved recognition and often receive commemorative trophies or plaques. These tokens of achievement serve as tangible reminders of the dedication and passion that went into creating a superb vehicle. The awards celebrate the excellence and creativity of car owners and builders and inspire others in the automotive community to strive for excellence and continue pushing the boundaries of automotive craftsmanship.
Cars and Coffee Oak Park
Cars and Coffee Oak Park is a wonderful community that meets monthly throughout the warmer seasons. One of the most diverse range of car meets within the area. You will find the entire spectrum of car lovers, right here in Oak Park. Cars and Coffee meets on select Sunday’s from 8:30-10:30am. Join the group HERE so you won’t miss the next!
Summer Cruise Nights La Grange Park
Join us on the 3rd Monday every June through September for the La Grange Park Antique Mall’s Vintage Car Summer Cruise Nights! Check out the cool cars, grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby restaurants, and stroll through the mall- they'll be open until 8pm. Learn MORE.
The Route 66 Car Show in Berwyn, IL, is an automotive extravaganza that has ignited the passion of car enthusiasts for over 30 years. The show celebrates the heritage of American automobiles and embraces the nostalgic spirit of the legendary Route 66. From the remarkable display of classic cars, hot rods, trucks, and motorcycles to the lively atmosphere filled with entertainment, food, and camaraderie, the car show offers an unforgettable experience for attendees of all ages. It's a chance to immerse yourself in the history of Route 66, engage with car enthusiasts, and create lasting memories.
We invite you to join the excitement and attend the Route 66 Car Show. Witness the beauty of meticulously restored classics, marvel at the creativity of custom builds, and connect with passionate car owners who share your love for automobiles. Experience the nostalgia and cultural significance associated with Route 66 and indulge in the vibrant atmosphere only a car show of this caliber can offer.