The third Saturday of every month has become special for those in the Plant City area, as it means having fun at the Strawberry Classic Car Show held at McCall Park in historic downtown Plant City. However, on Saturday, April 17th, 2004 it was extra special as it marked the events 7th Anniversary. Usually the monthly show takes place from 4:00-9:00pm, but to celebrate the Anniversary hours were extend to 2:00-9:00pm. As always the show was open to 1979 and older cars and trucks, with free vehicle registration and spectator admission. To be certain, plenty turned out for the celebration....to the tune of 857 vehicles! That’s truly an amazing number, and luckily the weather was nearly picture perfect as well.

Dash plaques were given to the first 200 registrants to arrive, as well as free photos by Nostalgic Photos, and there were 10 special awards presented. The Plant City Fire Rescue and Police Departments had displays, there were about 30 vendors offering various items, plus the specialty shops and restaurants in the area were open and willing to accommodate all shopping and munching urges.

Walking through downtown Plant City was an enjoyable excursion, as you found more cars and trucks around every corner. Plus, the city itself has a very historic look and feel, which goes perfectly with the older antiques, classics, hot rods and customs. Entertainment was not limited to just the glimmering and glorious autos though, as DJ Allen Page spun classic tunes, and there was live music by Nashville recording artist Jenna Thomas, and live 50’s and 60’s doo-wop performances by The Dukes of Harmony.

With so many great vehicles, great weather, and plenty to see and do there was little doubt that the 7th Anniversary Strawberry Classic Car Show was a huge success. But that is little surprise given the continued success of their monthly show. If you are ever in the area on the third Saturday of the month be sure and check this one out, and certainly consider making plans to attend next year’s 8th Anniversary show. Keep an eye for the announcement in our Coming Attractions section, or for info on either the monthly show or the Anniversary blow-out for 2005 contact the Plant City Chamber of Commerce at 813-754-3707, 800-760-2315, info@plantcity.org, or contact promoter Donna Potterton at 352-796-8015 or pottsfla@yahoo.com. CN