Oakland Car Show & Shine
A tradition since 2004 and a Benefit since 2006
A tradition since 2004 and a Benefit since 2006
The Oakland Car Show and Shine had its beginnings in 2004, as a promotion for the Oakland Community Theater's 1950's Musical Review, "Swingin' With the Fifties." It was a humble beginning. It was more of a car gathering of ten 1950's vehicles than an actual car show. The event happened in mid-March and we were lucky the weather cooperated with a sunny day.
The following year in 2005 brought OCT's 1960's Musical Review entitled "Groovin' With the Sixties." A much larger gathering of nearly 20 cars headlined the first weekend's show and created excitement for the well-received musical. Though a rather rainy day occurred, and the band scheduled for entertainment could not perform, there was increased interest in having a gathering of cars in downtown Oakland.
In 2006, under the guidance of OCT's then secretary, Steve Marek, a much bigger venue was planned. Mother's Day weekend was chosen for the show date to guarantee good weather! That show had a total of 87 entries for categories of cars, trucks, and motorcycles. There was entertainment, vendors, and the City of Oakland provided support by closing off a portion of Locust Street. The city also provided police supervision and had the complete support of downtown merchants as the venue grew beyond the original gathering. Cars came from as far away as Springfield, Florence, and Coos Bay.
In 2007, we expanded the show to have trophies for Five Categories, and it was also our first year of having a website to promote the show. We drew car enthusiasts from throughout Western Oregon. We drew entrants both locally and far away who wanted to enjoy the quaint "feel" and history of a 19th-Century town. Locust Street was the showcase for 59 cars and since the forecast wet weather never did materialize, a great time was had by all. Singer/Songwriter Kenny Holmes played music throughout the day, and during breaks he spun CD's featuring classic rock of the 1950's and 60's. There was also an hour of Karaoke featuring local singers who “belted it out” on stage.
In 2008, with 6 classes for the show including a "Special" Stock Paint & Engine Class, the Oakland Car Show & Shine was a great show. Our other new class was actually created by splitting our 1950's and 1960's groups into separate classes, the addition of a 1970's class, and expanded eligibility to 1977. We welcome both foreign and domestic cars to enter into any of the classes. Click here to see the 2008 flyer.
In 2009 they began pulling into town at 8 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, their highly polished bodies gleaming in the bright sunshine, the roar of powerful engines filled the air, and the 6th Annual Oakland Car Show and Shine was off to an impressive start. Over 100 very special vehicles lined Locust Street from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. The crowds were enthusiastic and very appreciative of the time, energy and patience taken with these lovingly restored (or maintained) pieces of modern art. First, Second, and Third place awards were presented in six classes.
In 2010, the Oakland Community Theater presented our 7th Annual Oakland Car Show and Shine. The show benefited and raised funds for the summer performances of our Oakland Melodrama Theater. Additionally, we supported the Oakland & Sutherlin High Schools’ theater productions. This show marked our commitment to provide wholesome family entertainment and opportunities for the community to become involved in.
Thanks for your participation and have a great time.
Click here to visit the Oakland Community Theater
Click here for more information on the City of Oakland
EMAIL: info@oaklandcarshow.org
Oakland Community Theater
P.O. Box 255, Oakland, OR 97462
541-459-4228
P.O. Box 255, Oakland, OR 97462
541-459-4228
