The annual Seaside Cruizers Show N' Shine provides a heavenly blend of vintage cars cared for by passionate owners. (Seaside Cruizers)

By Ian Holmes

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Hundreds of classic cars return to Qualicum Beach for legendary Father’s Day event

Jun 19, 2022 | 6:58 AM

QUALICUM BEACH — Clearly there’s pent up demand among classic car enthusiasts looking to show off their prized possessions.

A record number of over 620 registrants are signed up for the 29^th anniversary of the Seaside Cruizers Father’s Day Show N’ Shine in downtown Qualicum Beach on Sunday, June 19 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.

“By March 31st we were filled with 625 registered,” An astounded Alex Plonka president of the non-profit Seaside Cruizers told NanaimoNewsNOW.

Plonka figured the lingering effects of the pandemic with car shows shut down everywhere would reduce momentum for this year’s turnout.

Evidently vintage car buffs were eager to hit the gas toward Qualicum Beach as opposed to the brake.

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A festival-like family friendly atmosphere will greet people at the popular event.

“People are going to hear music, we have it from different eras like the 50’s and 60’s. There is going to be food trucks, the restaurants are open in anticipation of big crowds, the merchants are ready to go.”

The free event taking over Primrose St. and West Second Ave. is expected to draw more than 20,000 people throughout the day, Plonka said.

While most registrants hail from Vancouver Island, Plonka noted some make the trip from throughout western Canada and the United States.

Plonka is constantly amazed by the level of pride displayed by vintage car owners who attend their event.

“It’s probably one of the most expensive addictions that a person can have. Once you’re addicted to the car culture it’s all about the car — have it perfected, to keep it detailed.”

Plonka said cars and trucks from as far back as the 1920’s to the latest Corvette will be available for viewing.

“Probably the most popular cars at our show are the 60’s and 70’s types. Muscle cars and British cars, everything that us baby boomers grew up with when we were teenagers.”

There are nine trophy categories among 30 awards to be claimed after judging starts at 2 p.m.

Giveaways, raffle draws and a 50/50 draw will also be done which goes to numerous important causes.

Dozens of non-profit organizations receive funding annually courtesy of Seaside Cruizers.

Plonka said about $150,000 was generated for valued organizations in the Parksville-Qualicum Beach area between 2017 and 2019 thanks to their annual car show.

More information on Seaside Cruizers’ annual Show N’ Shine is available on their website.

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ian@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @reporterholmes