Thread: What do you look for in a Car Show?

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For me what makes a good show is the location. I hate parking lot shows where you have no shade and nothing to do but sit on a lawn chair after you walk around and see the other cars. One of the best shows we ever did was held at a park along the river, nice view, cool breeze, and grilles to cook stuff on.

It is also nice to have things to do for wives who may not be nuts about the car thing. A couple of craft vendors thrown in can go a long way. I would keep the rate at either a straight $ 10 or $ 20 without the food coupon thing, that might get confusing and the person may not want or be able to eat the food available.

As for the car wash, maybe a good idea, but I would want the hose and area to use myself. I don't know how many rodders would let their car be washed by anyone else, particularly HS kids (no offense, just being honest), I know I wouldn't.

I also hate 8 hour shows. Some of the best ones I have gone to are from like 9 to 1. Something like Turkey Run is the exception due to its size and lots of stuff to do and see.

Just some of my thoughts and pet peeves.

Don

Originally Posted by Itoldyouso

For me what makes a good show is the location. I hate parking lot shows where you have no shade and nothing to do but sit on a lawn chair after you walk around and see the other cars. One of the best shows we ever did was held at a park along the river, nice view, cool breeze, and grilles to cook stuff on.

It is also nice to have things to do for wives who may not be nuts about the car thing. A couple of craft vendors thrown in can go a long way. I would keep the rate at either a straight $ 10 or $ 20 without the food coupon thing, that might get confusing and the person may not want or be able to eat the food available.

As for the car wash, maybe a good idea, but I would want the hose and area to use myself. I don't know how many rodders would let their car be washed by anyone else, particularly HS kids (no offense, just being honest), I know I wouldn't.

I also hate 8 hour shows. Some of the best ones I have gone to are from like 9 to 1. Something like Turkey Run is the exception due to its size and lots of stuff to do and see.

Just some of my thoughts and pet peeves.

Don

Good thought about the field, which I agree with you on, but all we have to work with is a parking lot. That's why I'm having shade canopies set up.

In terms of the entry fee, what would your feelings be on having a choice? Make it so on preregistration, you can choose the $10 entry only OR the $20 fee which would include a $15 food coupon, but only available with preregistration? Otherwise $10 at the door. When running a fund raiser, it's always nice to know that you have pre-sold a certain number of items .... plus a number of "no-shows" or those who buy but don't use the coupons, helps increase the profit margin. Based on my experience, the food sale is what makes or breaks an event as a fund raiser.

Also agree on the time. Figured "be on the field" by 10am, awards at 3pm ~ want to "capture" a lunch crowd for the students...

Will try and get some craft vendors... great idea! How about a "green market" as well? We have an organic farm near the school ~ ?

more ideas around?

I agree completely with Itoldyouso's comments. To add one thing, if you give out awards, I would encourage you to give "Best of the Bunch" plaques rather than 1st, 2nd, 3rd place trophies. It is a lot easier to cite outstanding cars when you do not have to hassle over placements. It makes the exhibitors happier as well.

Oh, one thing I just thought of. Make sure your date doesn't happen to fall on the same time period as some other events, either car events or other events that might take people away from your show. You mention February, be careful as there will be Don Garlits show and Billetproof around that time, and also Daytona Spring Fling, or whatever it is called.

Feb is a good month usually though, weatherwise, and a lot of snow bird rodders are still here. An open field won't be bad in February. In July or August is is a whole different animal.

Since you also want to make some money for the band, some games where the participants pay a little would work, like Dunk the Principal, etc.

Don

What i enjoy alot at car shows is uniqueness. You might consider addding motorcycles to the mix. You can draw a whole different lot of people who do not normally go to car shows. Also lots of concession stands for food and crafts. and a swap meet or flea market area would be great.

I will agree that the "Top 25" or whatever number can be the best way to go about doing this. I got into a warm discussion as to why my 7 year old at the time '86 Mustang 1st place was better then the guy next to me who had a '73 and was 3rd. Should we have been in the same classification - no, but that's how the organizers set it up. My car was immaculate inside and out, his - the engine compartment hadn't been cleaned for years. This tends to keep the trophy hunters at bay to some extent.

You do need some other attractions - games or mechanical competitions - to keep folks busy.

Eight hour shows - gasp!!! I've probably left more of them then stayed for handing out of those useless trophies, and of course "missed" my chance.

Goody bags - love 'em. that is if they have something useful rather then some junk that ends in the trash.

Value give aways. How much can you get the local car parts, home centers, etc to support your endeavor. A case of oil, a cordless screw driver, a dinner out

Originally Posted by rumrumm

I agree completely with Itoldyouso's comments. To add one thing, if you give out awards, I would encourage you to give "Best of the Bunch" plaques rather than 1st, 2nd, 3rd place trophies. It is a lot easier to cite outstanding cars when you do not have to hassle over placements. It makes the exhibitors happier as well.

Noted! I like that phrase! Was considering a "Top Ten" award as well! Thanks!