STEP OUT of the stress of your work week and into the past a few hours every fourth Friday, April through October, on the Shelbyville square. Vintage and antique automobiles, along with more recent prized rides, encircle the courthouse. Park your lawn chairs near the stage, grab a bite from one of the many nearby food trucks, and stroll the Cruise-in on the Square.
A ‘55 Chevy in cashmere blue and India ivory takes you back to drive-in diners and rollerskate carhops. There’s a crowd bent under the hood of the rumbling engine of a ‘67 Camaro, and a similar scene surrounds a signal flare red ‘66 Mustang convertible. The past rubs elbows with the present with today’s muscle cars, motorcycles, and trucks.
Soon, the sun trades places with a star of diamonds, but the chrome doesn’t take a backseat when the crowd finds their chairs in front of Chase Clanton & Vintage Vibes. When classic music and classic cars dance together, it’s magical. This and much more are brought to you by the Celebration City Region Car Club Inc. (CCRCC).
Founded in the early 1980s by a group of enthusiasts led by Garland King, the CCRCC is a cornerstone of the local car scene. What started as a small group with a love for antique automobiles shifted into a thriving organization with over 60 members and a mission to give back to the community they call home.
Calvin Kincaid, past chairman of the CCRCC board, said, “Garland King had a vision of starting a local car club to be involved with the community and enjoy the car hobby. He, along with Ronnie Riddle, Jack Faris, Wendel Pylant, Billy Pylant, Calvin Kincaid, Frank Nichols, and Dr. John Derryberry, applied to be a Region of the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA), a national club. Most of [them] were already AACA members, so they formed Celebration City Car Club in March of 1982.”
One of the club’s most cherished traditions is its annual Celebration City Region Car Show, a fundraiser dating back to the 1980s. Initially focused solely on antique cars, the show has evolved to welcome vehicles of all makes, models, and vintages, from classic cruisers to sleek modern machines. And it’s not just cars on display — the show also features trucks, motorcycles, and even tractors, making it a truly inclusive celebration of automotive culture.
“This show is one of a few actual judged shows. This year’s show was on May 11th, and it was basically the same as previous years. We added classes for Jeeps and Mopars and usually base our classes on past participation. Rain or shine, we have the event,” explained Walt Bagar, club president.
But it’s not just about the cars — it’s about the people behind the wheel. That’s why the club’s monthly Cruise-in on the Square has become such a beloved event in the community. The cruise-in and other Fourth Friday attractions transform the town square into a hub of activity, drawing car enthusiasts from far and wide to share stories, swap tips, and simply enjoy an evening of fun.
“The cruise-in has grown tremendously and has been well received. It has become a community event with people bringing their cars from adjoining towns and even as far away as Michigan,” said Phyllis Clanton, secretary.
One of the most daunting tasks the CCRCC faced was hosting the annual Grand National Meet and a regular National Meet in June 2012. With over 1,000 entries and participants from 38 states and Puerto Rico, it was a monumental undertaking that required five years of planning and coordination. But thanks to the dedication and hard work of the club’s members, it was a resounding success, showcasing the best of what the car community has to offer.
The club is committed to ensuring that events like the car show and cruise-in continue for years to come. Not only do these gatherings provide an opportunity for enthusiasts to come together and celebrate their shared passion, but they also serve as a way to give back to the community. As a 501(c)4 nonprofit organization, the club regularly donates to local charities, positively impacting the lives of those in need.
Whether you’re a seasoned gearhead or just someone who appreciates the beauty of a well-restored classic, the CCRCC welcomes your membership. After all, it’s not just about the cars — it’s about the friendships, the memories, and the joy of the open road.
Mark your calendars for the Cruise-in on the Square events and the May car show. From vintage classics to modern head-turners, the events pay tribute to the rich history of automotive culture. So next time you find yourself longing for a taste of nostalgia or simply seeking a moment of connection, cruise on into a CCRC event where the past rubs elbows with the present. GN
