Car Show

10 things to do in Manitowoc this week, from Hoods & Hops Car Show to Curd Crawl, Art of Tablesettings and lots of live music

Discover Manitowoc's Vibrant Cultural Tapestry: A Celebration of Art, Cuisine, and CommunityManitowoc, a vibrant city nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, is gearing up for a week filled with captivating events that showcase its rich cultural heritage. From the highly anticipated Art of Tablesettings exhibit to the Hoods & Hops Car Show and the Curd Crawl, this Midwestern gem offers a diverse array of experiences for visitors and locals alike.

Unlock the Artistry of Tablesettings: A 50-Year Legacy

Celebrating the Art of Tablescape Design

The Art of Tablesettings exhibit at the Rahr-West Art Museum is a cherished tradition that has been delighting visitors for the past 50 years. This annual showcase celebrates the creativity and ingenuity of local artists who transform ordinary tabletops into stunning works of art. Fifty unique tablescapes, each inspired by the museum's hanging wall art, will be on display, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the intricate details and imaginative designs.

Honoring the Legacy of Ruth West

The Art of Tablesettings exhibit holds a special place in the hearts of the Manitowoc community, as it was one of the late Ruth West's personal favorites. West, a renowned artist and patron of the arts, played a pivotal role in shaping the city's cultural landscape. The continued success and popularity of this exhibit serve as a testament to her enduring legacy and the community's deep appreciation for the arts.

A Feast for the Senses

Visitors to the Art of Tablesettings exhibit will be treated to a visual feast, as they witness the creativity and craftsmanship of local artists. From intricate table settings to whimsical centerpieces, each tablescape offers a unique perspective on the art of dining and entertaining. The exhibit not only showcases the talent of the participating artists but also invites visitors to explore the intersection of art, design, and the culinary experience.

Revving Up for the Hoods & Hops Car Show

A Celebration of Vintage Vehicles and Community

The Hoods & Hops Classic Car Show, hosted by Craft Creek Brewing, is a must-attend event for automotive enthusiasts and community members alike. Gather downtown on October 6th to admire a stunning array of vintage vehicles, each a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of their era. As you stroll through the display, sip on a refreshing craft brew and savor delectable bites, all while enjoying the lively atmosphere and live music.

Giving Back to the Community

The Hoods & Hops Car Show is more than just a celebration of classic cars; it's also an opportunity to support a worthy cause. Proceeds from the event will benefit The Harper Group, an organization dedicated to providing assistance to children with critical illnesses. By attending the car show, visitors can indulge their passion for vintage vehicles while contributing to a meaningful initiative that makes a tangible difference in the lives of local families.

A Unique Blend of Automotive and Culinary Delights

The Hoods & Hops Car Show offers a unique blend of automotive and culinary delights. Visitors can immerse themselves in the captivating world of vintage vehicles, admiring the sleek lines, chrome accents, and meticulously restored interiors. Meanwhile, the on-site food and beverage offerings from Craft Creek Brewing provide the perfect complement to the automotive showcase, creating a well-rounded experience that caters to a diverse range of interests and tastes.

Curd Crawl: A Cheesy Celebration of Manitowoc's Culinary Prowess

Discovering Manitowoc's Finest Cheese Curds

Cheese curds are a beloved staple in the Midwest, and Manitowoc is no exception. On October 5th, the United Way's Curd Crawl invites visitors to embark on a delectable journey through the city's culinary landscape, sampling the best cheese curds Manitowoc has to offer. Discounted curds will be available at participating establishments, allowing attendees to indulge in a variety of flavors and textures.

Crowning the Cheese Curd Champion

The Curd Crawl is more than just a tasting event; it's a competition to crown the 2024 Cheese Curd Champion. Attendees will have the opportunity to rate their favorite cheese curds along the way, contributing to the selection of the ultimate winner. This friendly competition not only celebrates the city's culinary prowess but also fosters a sense of community pride and friendly rivalry among local businesses.

A Celebration of Manitowoc's Culinary Heritage

The Curd Crawl is a testament to Manitowoc's rich culinary heritage and its deep-rooted connection to the dairy industry. By showcasing the city's finest cheese curds, the event not only delights the taste buds of visitors but also highlights the skilled artisanship and dedication of local producers. This celebration of Manitowoc's culinary excellence is a must-attend event for anyone who appreciates the art of cheese-making and the vibrant food culture of the Midwest.

Antique Treasure Hunt: Unearthing Unique Finds

Exploring Manitowoc's Antique Landscape

Manitowoc is a treasure trove for antique enthusiasts, with a diverse array of antique stores, vintage boutiques, and barn sales waiting to be discovered. The Fall 2024 Vintage Shop Hop, taking place on October 4-5, offers the perfect opportunity to embark on an exciting treasure hunt through the city's antique landscape. With over 400 participating establishments, visitors can expect to find a wide range of unique and one-of-a-kind items, from vintage furniture and collectibles to rare antiques and hidden gems.

Uncovering Manitowoc's Hidden Gems

The Fall 2024 Vintage Shop Hop is more than just a shopping event; it's a chance to uncover the hidden gems that make Manitowoc's antique scene so captivating. Whether you're searching for that elusive piece to complete your collection or simply looking to add a touch of vintage charm to your home, this weekend-long event promises to be a treasure trove of discoveries. From the Manitowoc Antique Mall to Gritty Lane and Ebert's Antiques, each stop along the way offers a unique and immersive shopping experience.

Connecting with Manitowoc's Vibrant Antique Community

The Fall 2024 Vintage Shop Hop is not just about the hunt for antique treasures; it's also an opportunity to connect with Manitowoc's vibrant antique community. As you explore the various shops and boutiques, you'll have the chance to engage with passionate collectors, knowledgeable dealers, and fellow enthusiasts, sharing stories and exchanging insights that will enrich your antique-hunting experience. This event celebrates the city's rich history and the enduring appeal of vintage finds, fostering a sense of community and appreciation for the art of collecting.

Vintage Vehicles Shine at Annual Car Extravaganza

The Rollin' Oldies car club celebrated the 49th edition of their annual "Fifties in the Fall" car show, drawing a record 267 classic and custom vehicles to River Park on September 21st. The event, which has become a beloved tradition in the community, not only showcased an impressive array of automotive masterpieces but also raised funds for scholarships at the Linn-Benton Community College Advanced Transportation Technology Center.

Revving Up for a Nostalgic Celebration of Automotive History

A Showcase of Automotive Elegance and Craftsmanship

The "Fifties in the Fall" car show is a testament to the enduring passion for vintage vehicles and the dedication of the Rollin' Oldies car club. With 267 cars registered, the event was a veritable feast for the senses, as visitors were treated to a dazzling display of meticulously restored and customized automobiles from across the decades. From the sleek lines of the 1930s to the bold designs of the 1970s, each vehicle on display represented a unique chapter in the evolution of the automotive industry.The competition was fierce, with the Rollin' Oldies car club awarding a total of 49 trophies across a wide range of categories. The winners showcased the incredible diversity of the event, with standout entries in pre-1930s, 1930s, 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, and 2000+ classes for both cars and trucks. The event also recognized the best in specialty categories, such as Mustang, Camaro, Chevelle, Tri-Five, Ford, GM, Mopar, T-Bucket, Custom, Muscle Car, and more.

Honoring the Passion and Craftsmanship of Car Enthusiasts

The car show was not just about the vehicles themselves, but also the stories and passions of the owners who poured their hearts and souls into restoring and maintaining these automotive treasures. From the gleaming paint jobs to the meticulously detailed engines, each car on display represented countless hours of hard work, dedication, and a deep appreciation for the art of automotive restoration.The event also recognized the contributions of the Rollin' Oldies car club, with awards for Club Participation, Host Car, and Host Truck. These accolades highlighted the club's tireless efforts in organizing and hosting the annual event, ensuring that it remained a beloved tradition in the community.

Celebrating the Legacy of Automotive Innovation

The "Fifties in the Fall" car show was not just a celebration of the past, but also a testament to the enduring legacy of automotive innovation. The event showcased the incredible craftsmanship and attention to detail that has defined the automotive industry for generations, inspiring a new generation of car enthusiasts to carry on the tradition.Whether it was the sleek lines of a 1940s custom Ford Cabriolet or the powerful presence of a 1956 Ford F100, each vehicle on display represented a unique chapter in the story of automotive design and engineering. By honoring these automotive masterpieces, the Rollin' Oldies car club not only celebrated the past but also looked towards the future, inspiring a new generation of car enthusiasts to continue the legacy of automotive excellence.

Giving Back to the Community

The "Fifties in the Fall" car show was not just about the cars, but also about the community. The Rollin' Oldies car club used the event as an opportunity to raise funds for scholarships at the Linn-Benton Community College Advanced Transportation Technology Center, ensuring that the next generation of automotive technicians and engineers would have the resources they need to pursue their passions.This commitment to giving back to the community was a testament to the Rollin' Oldies car club's dedication to preserving and promoting the automotive industry. By investing in the education and training of future generations, the club was ensuring that the legacy of automotive excellence would continue to thrive for years to come.

Revving Up for the Sandhill Crane Car Show: A Celebration of Automotive Artistry

The Sandhill Crane Car Show, a highly anticipated annual event, cruised into Wheatfield on September 21st, showcasing a diverse array of automotive masterpieces. Overseen by the experienced Bill Davis of Bill's Automotive, the show attracted nearly 200 vehicles, ranging from vintage classics to modern marvels, captivating the attention of enthusiasts and casual observers alike.

Unleashing the Power of Automotive Passion

A Showcase of Automotive Excellence

The Sandhill Crane Car Show was a true celebration of automotive artistry, with 26 classes of vehicles judged throughout the day and five special categories. From the gleaming chrome of antique models to the sleek lines of contemporary rides, each entry represented the culmination of countless hours of restoration, modification, and sheer passion. The top three in each class were awarded trophies, recognizing the dedication and craftsmanship of their owners.

The Crowned Jewels: Major Award Winners

The event's pinnacle was the coveted Best of Show award, which was bestowed upon Willie Wireman's stunning 1972 Chevrolet C-10. This vehicle also earned the prestigious Chamber Choice accolade. Other major award winners included Duane Waldrop's 1969 Chevy Camaro for Best Engine, Robert Ferguson's 1969 Pontiac GTO for Best Paint, and Helen Guzorek's 1968 Chevy Camaro for Best Interior. The Judge's Choice Award was presented to Melanie Richie Sayer's 1977 Ford Mustang II, further showcasing the depth of talent and diversity on display.

Vintage Gems and Modern Marvels

The show's classes were divided by era, allowing visitors to appreciate the evolution of automotive design and engineering. In the Pre-1950 Stock category, William Vandermolen's 1926 Ford Model T stood out as the best in class. The 1950-1959 Stock class saw Bill Davis, Sr.'s 1956 Chevy Model 210 take the top spot, followed by John Latta's 1955 Ford Victoria and Adam Rossie's 1957 Chevy Hard Top.The 1960-1969 Stock class was dominated by Daryl Bierma's 1969 Ford Mustang, with Daryl Russell's 1969 Plymouth Roadrunner and Debbie Russell's 1969 Chevelle rounding out the top three. In the 1970-1979 Stock group, Ronnie Goby's 1972 Chevy Nova claimed first place, followed by Dennis Patton's 1970 Chevelle and Louis Gorden's 1973 Plymouth Duster.The more modern 1980-2000 Stock category saw Shawn Garner's 1998 Pontiac Trans Am take the top spot, with Cindy Fabish' 1980 Chevy Camaro Z28 and L. Gillis' 1999 Ford Mustang in second and third, respectively. The 2001-2009 Stock years were led by Kevon Lennington's 2001 Mustang and George Burnes' 2006 GTO, while the 2010-Present class was topped by Tim Longbeen's 2017 Challenger, followed by Larry Cindary's 2022 Ford Shelby GT 500 and Denise Cultice's 2024 Camaro.

Modifications and Masterpieces

The Modified classes showcased the creativity and craftsmanship of the participants, with each era represented. In the Pre-1950 Modified group, Ronald Clark's 1932 Ford Roadster took the top spot, followed by Linda Unland's 1932 Hapmobile Sedan and Rich Wojtowicz's 1939 Olds. The 1950-1959 Modified class was dominated by Deb and Tracy Allen's 1956 Chevy S-10, with Christine Wojtowicz's 1951 Chevy 3100 Series and Bill Davis' 1955 Chevy 210 Sedan rounding out the top three.The 1960-1969 Modified group was led by Scott Wireman's 1967 Chevy SS, with Shawn Mihalovits' 1969 Camaro and David Hart's 1967 Pontiac Firebird following closely. In the 1970-1979 Modifieds, Mike Musall's '79 Chevelle took the top spot, with Robert Koartge's 1978 Olds Hurst and George Hansen's 1977 Chevrolet in second and third, respectively. Bill Misch continued his winning streak in the 1980-2000 Modified division with his 1981 Chevy, followed by Kyle Blanchard's 2000 GMC Sierra and John Tarsa's 1991 Nissan.The 2001-Present Modified class was dominated by Scott Shireman's 2014 Dodge Challenger, with Brian Ridge's 2016 Ford Shelby GT and Jim Moore's 2009 Dodge Challenger rounding out the top three.

Specialty Categories: Showcasing Unique Gems

The Sandhill Crane Car Show also featured several specialty categories, each highlighting the diverse passions of the participants. In the Pro Street Category, Crusher Waldrop's '67 Camaro took the top spot, with Anthony Valpo's 1938 Chevy in second. The Project vehicle class was led by Dan Weimer's 1970 Chevy, followed by Michael Garcia's 1968 Pontiac Firebird and Josh Waldrop's 1969 Camaro.The Junior Class was won by Darin Adams' 2010 Chevy Camaro SS, showcasing the next generation of automotive enthusiasts. The Special Interest category was topped by Ron Pivarnik's 1934 Ford Roadster, with Jay Misch' 1967-70 Chevy/Shasta C-10 and William Vandermolen's Wheel House rounding out the top three. The Rat Rod class was won by Brian Nelson's 1956 Ford F100, with Zane Smith's 1931 Ford A in second place.

Trucks and Motorcycles: Celebrating Diverse Passions

The Sandhill Crane Car Show also featured categories for trucks and motorcycles, showcasing the breadth of automotive enthusiasm. In the Stock Trucks class, Beth Gilmore's 1994 Ford F150 took the top spot, followed by Glen Gorby's 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 Daytone Edition and Shawn Holm-Hanson's 1969 El Camino.The Modified Trucks category was won by Johnny B's 1955 Ford F100, with Willie Wireman's Chevy C-10 and Pat Schlegel's 1950 Chevy 3100 also making an impressive showing.The motorcycle classes were equally captivating, with Rick Helton's 2003 Indiana taking the top spot in the Stock American Bikes category, followed by Robert Stevenson's 2015 Harley Street Glide and Mark Wireman's 2014 HD Breakout. In the Modified American Bikes class, Owen Misch' 1998 Harley Sportster was the winner, followed by Lewis Turner's H-D FXE Super Glide and Gary Beaver's 2003 H-D Device. The Stock Foreign Bike award went to Carl Klahn's 2014 Streetglide, while Shotgun Reynold's 1975 Kawasaki 21 won the Modified Foreign Bike category.

Corvette Royalty and Survivor Legends

The Sandhill Crane Car Show also featured a dedicated Corvette-only category, where Christy Dzur's '95 model took the top spot, followed by Sean Bennett's 2021 Corvette and Phil Norwak's 40th Anniversary 1993 Corvette.The final category, the "Survivor Class," was won by Michale Mirele's 1941 Buick, showcasing the enduring legacy of these automotive icons. Dave Hachlica's 1986 Lincoln Continental and George Jen's 1973 Buick Wagon also earned recognition in this prestigious class.The Sandhill Crane Car Show was a true celebration of automotive passion, where the past, present, and future converged in a stunning display of craftsmanship, creativity, and community. From the gleaming chrome of vintage models to the sleek lines of modern marvels, each entry represented the dedication and enthusiasm of its owner, captivating the hearts and minds of all who attended.