Penticton rolls into the holiday weekend in fine style Saturday with the 18th annual Rotary Wheels Car Show.
Automotive care givers from the Pacific Northwest and beyond will be bringing their four-wheel beauties of all makes and models to Rotary Park on Okanagan Lake (by the Peach) for people to enjoy.
According to Sandy Henderson, one of the co-organizers of this year’s event, the annual Rotary Club of Penticton-Okanagan show has become a must see for people who live in the area.
“We find there are folks from everywhere around here who just come back year after year because they enjoy seeing all of the really neat cars and trucks,” she said “It’s just really good because there’s usually over 100 vehicles from all over the place and they’re not just the same ones that go to the other show (Peach City Beach Cruise) but quite a few others that don’t.
“I also think it’s the beautiful weather we have here in the valley. It’s the long weekend and who doesn’t like it in Penticton at this time of year. People are down at the market and they can just turn around and we’re right there.”
According to Henderson there is the added attraction of people knowing proceeds from the various fundraising efforts during the day go to support many Rotary club activities and charitable causes.
“The important thing is it goes to help local things so they are really getting their money’s worth,” she said. “We give a bursary to a young student who is taking auto mechanics and other scholarships.”
As well, some of the funds go to Rotary’s annual student exchange program, which brings young people from across the country to Penticton. But deep down inside the co-organizer believes it is just the fact everyone has fun in a beautiful setting which is the biggest draw.
“After all, that’s what it’s all about,” she said.
This year’s show is sponsored by Murray Buick GMC Penticton. In addition to the outstanding display of vehicles there will be entertainment throughout the day from performers including; the Groov-a-Matics, Aaron Halliday as Allan Jackson, Daryl Weman as Johnny Cash, Terrie Bremner, Melody Lane, Terry and Ivan and Ivan Prefontaine.
Gates open at 9 a.m. and the event runs until 4 p.m.
There will be food and beverages available along with draw prizes and auction items.
Those attending will have the opportunity to vote on their favourite vehicle in the people’s choice award.
Trophies will also go to the winners of the categories including stock pre-1949 onwards, modified, import, special interest and trucks.
Tickets are $2 for adults and those under 10 get in for $1.