Now in its 14th year, the Cool Bayview Nights Car Show will be 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, July 7 at Bayview Hall.
The summer community car show and parts swap brings together Whidbey car enthusiasts of all backgrounds to see a wide selection of vehicles, including show cars, rare automobiles, motorcycles, tractors, trucks and hot rods.
For founder and organizer Brian Grimm, the event has grown into what he wanted from the start— a family-friendly car show with appeal across generations.
“Glued together for the love of cars” is how he describes those who are involved with running the annual show.
There are prizes to be won— T-shirts, sweatshirts, tools, auto accessories, gift certificates and more, not to mention 28 trophies and the “Best In Show” award.
He estimates 400 or 500 people will show up to the event, and spectators can vote for their pick for Best In Show.
“The car show is open to anybody who wants to enter their cars,” said Grimm, whose own prized possession is a 48 Gibson tractor made in Seattle.
In 2018, the Best In Show champion was the 1941 Ford Graham Hollywood Super owned by Roy Deaver of Clinton.
There will be live music and food on site for purchase, and proceeds go to South Whidbey community projects, including funds for painting Bayview Community Hall.
Just don’t expect any adult beverages. Grimm, a life-long South Whidbey resident, has been active in many local organizations, including several anti-drunk driving groups. Having served as president of “Safe Ride Home,” and spoken in schools about the importance of a sober driver, Grimm didn’t think mixing beer with an automobile show would send a good message.
His favorite part about running the show is being around those with the same passion and interest in vehicles as well as “getting to be able to talk in front of the people,” he said.
Thanking the event’s 22 sponsors is important, Grimm said.
“If it wasn’t for them, we couldn’t put the show on,” he said.
Information can be found here.
Ray Harding’s 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28.
Ray Harding’s 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28.
Grimm’s 48 Gibson tractor. (Photo provided)
