After accumulating in popularity for the past quarter century, the South Okanagan and Okanagan chapters of the Vintage Car Club of Canada are hosting a massive annual auto swap meet for its 25-year milestone.
“This may be one of the largest swap meets we’ve ever had because there’s been quite a bit of interest this year,” said Ron Garay, swap meet co-ordinator.
This year’s swap meet happens on April 18 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and will be held in the parking lot of the Penticton Curling Club – which can easily accommodate the vast demand.
“The outside vendor area is quite large compared to in the past, and we have the opportunity to expand if we need to.”
Originally, the annual swap meets were held in Keremeos, then in Oliver, and finally Summerland before coming to Penticton six years ago.
Garay mused over how the definition of the word ‘vintage’ has evolved since the local swap meets began in 1990.
“When you think 25 years – my old ’84 Honda Accord would be considered vintage now,” he said. “When the Vintage Car Club first started in 1958, it was anything pre-1915.”
He said that the current criteria for a vintage car is in sync with ICBC’s rules for collector plates – anything 25 years or older.
“It caters to everyone,” he said. “You’ll see a lot of cars for sales from the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s.”
And he said that auto parts and memorabilia from as far back as the 1920s will be found at the swap meet.
if you’re looking for something for your engine, or a whole new one – they have a lot of engines for sale, and it’s a great way to decorate a garage or man cave.”
Exploring all of the vendors could easily take over an hour this weekend, Garay said, and because of the strong camaraderie, visitors with a keen interest in the hobby could spend much longer.
There are more than 150 confirmed so far, and Garay said that space can be accommodated for any last-minute vendors. Simply call him at 250-462-2111.
Admission to the event costs $2 for adults, and children younger than 12 are free.