Usually when there is an aggregation of cars in one area, it means traffic.
However, when an aggregation of classic cars appears in downtown Modesto this weekend it means that it is time for the annual American Graffiti Car Show and Festival.
Although this weekend will mark the 17th year that the North Modesto Kiwanis has hosted this event, this will be the first year of holding the event at the Modesto Municipal Golf Course.
“I like to say if people like art, if people like mechanics, or if people like automobiles, they are going to enjoy our show,” said American Graffiti Festival chairperson John Sanders. “The cars and trucks are quite amazing.”
“But you don’t have to like cars to appreciate it,” he added.
Albeit the festival has already kicked off with a classic car parade on Friday, guests will still have plenty to enjoy for the rest of the weekend, including over 1,000 vehicles and 200 different food and retail vendors.
Live music will also fill the air throughout the weekend at the Budweiser Stage with The Super Avengers from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., The Sensations and Silvermoon Band from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., and Big Earl and the Crying Shame from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. Sunday will host The Kent Whitt band at 11:30 a.m.
Special guests for this year’s festivities include Candy Clark, Bob Hopkins, and Gene Winfield. A number of radio stations will also be present.
The 17th Annual North Modesto Kiwanis American Graffiti Car Show and Festival will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. today and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. The awards ceremony is scheduled for 2 p.m. on Sunday.
Tickets for the show are $10 for adults. There is no cost for children 12 and under. Sanders reports that money raised from this year’s event will support approximately 50 different groups and organizations with an emphasis on kids.
The event will take place at The Modesto Municipal Golf Course, 400 Tuolumne Boulevard. For more information regarding the festival, call 1-888-746-9763 or visit americangraffitifestival.com.
