A vibrant celebration of automotive artistry and nostalgic music unfolded at the Imperial Valley Fairgrounds on April 5, as the East Side Story Car Show & Fiesta + Funkin’ Oldies brought together enthusiasts from all walks of life. Dozens of intricately customized vehicles, often referred to as "ranflas," graced the event alongside classic lowrider melodies. Attendees were also thrilled by a special appearance from Anthony Boosalis, known for designing the East Side Story Music series.
This iconic gathering featured an impressive array of automobiles, ranging from the roaring '30s to the dynamic '90s, including motorcycles and bicycles vying for numerous awards. The soundtrack of the day included performances by Lakeside, Tierra Legacy, Sunny Ozuna, Candyman, and other legendary acts. Originating in 1979, this traveling festival has long been dedicated to curating the finest R&B classics and doo-wop ballads, resonating deeply with the lowriding culture.
A Showcase of Automotive Artistry
The fairgrounds became a canvas of creativity as participants unveiled their meticulously crafted rides. Each vehicle was not just a mode of transportation but an expression of individuality, adorned with intricate designs and cutting-edge modifications that turned heads. From vintage cars to modern cycles, every entry competed fiercely for recognition across various categories.
Visitors marveled at the sheer diversity of entries, each representing decades of innovation and craftsmanship. These automobiles ranged from pre-war masterpieces to post-modern marvels, reflecting the evolution of design over nearly seven decades. Motorcycles and bicycles added another layer of excitement, showcasing how even smaller vehicles could achieve grandeur through customization. This competition wasn't merely about winning; it celebrated passion, dedication, and the timeless allure of classic vehicles.
Nostalgic Melodies Revive the Spirit of Lowriding
Music played a pivotal role in setting the tone for this unforgettable event. Live performances by renowned artists like Lakeside and Tierra Legacy transported attendees back to eras defined by soulful rhythms and heartfelt lyrics. The curated playlist further enhanced the experience, offering a blend of timeless R&B hits and captivating doo-wop ballads.
Born out of a desire to honor the roots of lowriding culture, the East Side Story Music series has grown into a cherished tradition since its inception in 1979. Its founder envisioned creating playlists that perfectly complemented the cruising experience, ensuring every ride felt like a journey through history. At this year's edition, Anthony Boosalis's presence underscored the importance of preserving these musical legacies while inspiring new generations to embrace them. Through song, the event connected people across age groups, fostering a sense of community rooted in shared appreciation for retro sounds.
In the heart of summer, Princeton is gearing up for an exhilarating celebration of automotive history with Show and Shine 2025. Now in its third year, this two-day extravaganza promises a nostalgic journey through time via gleaming chrome and roaring engines. Scheduled for August 29-30, the event will bring together car enthusiasts, families, and local communities for a vibrant display of vintage vehicles complemented by live music and interactive activities.
A Community Celebration Through Wheels and Music
As the golden rays of summer bathe Princeton, the town prepares to welcome Show and Shine 2025, marking its third successful installment. Organized by dedicated volunteers like Therese Grgich, this year’s event begins with a swap meet on Friday evening from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., setting the stage for Saturday's main attraction—a grand car show running from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Alongside these highlights, attendees can enjoy food trucks, children’s entertainment featuring balloons, and the unveiling of a fresh logo and revamped social media presence.
Grgich expresses optimism about the anticipated turnout of 200 classic cars, reflecting the growing popularity of this community-driven initiative. While final details remain under development, organizers assure participants of a well-rounded experience blending nostalgia with modern charm. Registration fees stand at $25 for car entries and $50 for food vendors, with proceeds destined for a charitable cause yet to be announced.
Through their efforts, Grgich and her team aim not only to honor Princeton's heritage but also to foster camaraderie among residents and visitors alike.
From a journalist's perspective, Show and Shine exemplifies how passion projects can unite people across generations. It demonstrates that preserving traditions doesn’t mean standing still; instead, it involves embracing innovation while respecting roots. Such initiatives remind us of the power of collaboration and shared interests in building stronger, more connected communities.
An exciting opportunity for automobile enthusiasts and community supporters is coming up with the second edition of the Braves Pit Stop Car Show. Organized by Chopticon High School, this event serves as a platform not only to admire stunning vehicles but also to contribute to an important cause—the school’s Envirothon Team. Scheduled for April 12th from 2 to 4 p.m., the gathering invites participants from all walks of life to bring their prized rides while raising funds for environmental education initiatives.
This car show, open to cars, trucks, and motorcycles of any year, make, or model, promises to be a vibrant celebration of automotive culture. The competition aspect adds a thrilling dimension, with trophies awarded for first, second, and third place winners. Additionally, dash plaques will be handed out to the initial fifty registrants. For those eager to participate, entry fees amount to $20 per vehicle, whereas admission remains free for spectators. Attendees can enjoy the presence of Linda's On The Go food truck, providing delicious meals throughout the event.
The registration process has been made simple through an online form accessible via designated links. Moreover, local small business owners are warmly encouraged to seize this chance to display their offerings during the show. In case of inclement weather, a backup date has been established for April 26th, maintaining the same time frame.
Beyond being a spectacle of horsepower and craftsmanship, this event underscores the importance of nurturing young leaders in environmental stewardship. Through the Envirothon program, students gain invaluable skills such as leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. These competencies prepare them to address pressing ecological issues effectively. By attending or participating in the car show, individuals contribute directly to fostering these critical educational endeavors.
Through a blend of entertainment and philanthropy, the Braves Pit Stop Car Show exemplifies how communities can unite around shared interests while supporting meaningful causes. This initiative reflects the broader mission of cultivating awareness and action towards conserving natural resources, empowering future generations to become responsible stewards of our planet.