The Optimist Club’s Cruise Ins are vibrant community gatherings that celebrate classic cars, local pride, and charitable spirit. Held during the warmer months, these events invite car enthusiasts to showcase vintage, custom, and specialty vehicles in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Rows of polished chrome and colorful paint jobs line the streets or parking lots, drawing spectators of all ages to admire the craftsmanship and history behind each ride.

More than just a car show, the Cruise In is a social hub where neighbors reconnect, visitors mingle, and generations bond over shared memories and mutual admiration for automotive design. Music, food vendors, raffles, and sometimes even live entertainment add to the festive mood, making it a full evening of fun. Kids enjoy the sights and sounds, while adults swap stories and vote for their favorite vehicles.

The event also serves as a meaningful fundraiser for the Optimist Club’s youth-focused initiatives. Proceeds from entry fees, concessions, and donations go directly toward scholarships, school programs, and community outreach that benefit local children and teens. Local businesses often sponsor the event or donate prizes, reinforcing the strong ties between the club and the broader community.

Ultimately, the Cruise In reflects the Optimist Club’s mission to bring out the best in youth and the community. By blending nostalgia with purpose, the event turns a shared love of classic cars into a powerful engine for good. It’s a tradition that not only celebrates the past but also invests in the future—one polished fender and smiling face at a time.

Project leader: Greg Dirks