As the economy tightens, so will car show budgets. I was just wondering how long "car shows" as opposed to cruise nights will exist. I recall about 8 to 10 years ago reading of a club in the Georgia area that had a 3 day show for 25 years and decided to stop. They announced they were going to start all over again with a one day show as they had 25 years before. I wonder how they made out in this endeavor, or if they ever did start again. I also wonder if a move like this would succeed today. Are 3 day shows out of budget? Are larger, regional shows, as opposed to small, local shows out of touch? Does anyone recall what this show was in Georgia and how did this changeover do? Success? Failure? Existing but just getting by?
Just the opposite is true actually. The larger shows such as Goodguys have marketing peeps that keep their eyes and ears on the pulse of John Q Hot Rodder and can see issues or trends starting and can react to these fast and accurate. Small club based local shows basicly are just attractive to those that don't travel to the larger out of state events. I have good friends, local car peeps that have never driven their cars to a show outside the Metro Detroit area. They've never even heard of Goodguys or NSRA. In my opinion it's the small shows that are out of touch, or maybe I should say they do nothing to catch my attention or drive my desire to attend. Can you say boring?? Same cars, same DJ that are at all the local cruz nights. Why would I want to spend a Saturday afternoon hanging out with the same cars/peeps that I can see Monday thru Thursday if I go out??
All i know is that i enjoy driving to and from shows more than i do the shows. Second to that is checking out the vendors and swaps. As far as parking a car for 6-10 hours and answering the same questions over and over I'll leave that for the real people persons.I usually get up and walk around after I've heard and answered the same question for the fourth time. Guess i'd just rather drive mine.
Small shows or cruises will continue to be popular, but as stated, they tend to get boring. The national AutoRama's and GoodGuy events will almost always have something new to check out. While budget will force a few to stay home, careful planning and penny saving (literally) will be the way of the********* gearhead. Also, if you show your car at a show, PLEASE get out of your folding chair and answer a few questions when someone asks about your car. A little kindness goes a long way in getting folks to come. Not only is it just good manners, but you may get a lead on that "barnfind" you been dreaming about.
The Jalopy Journal
