Over 500 vintage cars and thousands of fans packed Cloverdale’s Hot Rod Saturday, the B.C. Hot Rod Association’s biggest event yet.
Crowds Flock to Cloverdale for Annual Car Show
The 9th annual Hot Rod Saturday event took place on July 5 in the parking lot of Elements Casino in Cloverdale, drawing record-breaking crowds and vehicle entries. Organized by the B.C. Hot Rod Association (BCHRA), the event has become a staple in the region’s summer calendar, attracting car enthusiasts from across British Columbia.
Organizers Celebrate Record Participation
BCHRA executive board member Joe Morris confirmed that over 500 classic and specialty vehicles were on display—making it the largest turnout in the show’s history. “It went fantastic,” Morris said. “We had record crowds and record entries.” The steady growth of the event, which featured only 300 cars in 2022, highlights its rising popularity.
Wide Array of Classic Vehicles Showcased
The one-day event ran from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., offering visitors a chance to explore an extensive lineup of vehicles including vintage hot rods, dragsters, collectible classics, motorcycles, RCMP cars, military vehicles, and even fire trucks. Participants paid entry fees to showcase their vehicles, with thousands of spectators arriving to enjoy the automotive spectacle.
Community and Charity at the Heart
Hot Rod Saturday is more than just a display of automotive beauty—it’s also a major community fundraiser. Proceeds support both the BCHRA and various local charities. One key beneficiary is the Valley Therapeutic Equestrian Association, a Langley-based organization offering therapeutic horseback riding. “We’ve given them pretty close to $150,000 over the years,” Morris noted.
Powered by Volunteers and Sponsors
According to organizers, the event’s success relies heavily on its dedicated team of volunteers and generous sponsors. “It takes a lot of people to put this on,” Morris emphasized. The support from vendors, car owners, and the community plays a critical role in sustaining the event’s growth and impact.
Looking Ahead to Future Events
With the Elements Casino location providing ample space for expansion, Morris says Hot Rod Saturday continues to evolve. “It keeps getting bigger and better every year,” he said, suggesting that future editions may set even higher benchmarks. The BCHRA plans to continue hosting the event at the same venue in coming years.
For more information, visit bchra.ca.
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