The annual Darryl Starbird’s National Rod & Custom Car Show is set to transform the SageNet Center at Expo Square Fairgrounds into a showcase of automotive artistry from February 14th to 16th, 2025. This event not only celebrates custom car culture but also supports a noble cause. A portion of the proceeds from pre-sale tickets will go towards alleviating child hunger through the Food For Kids program at the Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma. The community is encouraged to purchase their tickets early to contribute to this meaningful initiative.

A Celebration of Automotive Ingenuity

This premier event in Tulsa brings together car enthusiasts and collectors who are passionate about classic rods and custom vehicles. Visitors can expect an impressive display of meticulously restored and uniquely modified cars. The show promises to be a visual feast for anyone interested in the history and evolution of American automobiles. Attendees will have the opportunity to admire rare models and engage with fellow aficionados.

Each year, the Darryl Starbird’s National Rod & Custom Car Show sets new standards for what it means to celebrate automotive heritage. From vintage hot rods to cutting-edge custom builds, the exhibition offers a comprehensive look at the craftsmanship and innovation that define this niche. Beyond just viewing, attendees can participate in various activities such as live demonstrations, workshops, and interactive displays. The event serves as both an educational experience and a platform for networking among industry professionals and hobbyists alike.

Supporting Local Communities Through Ticket Sales

In addition to showcasing automotive excellence, the event organizers have integrated a charitable component into the ticket purchasing process. By buying pre-sale tickets before February 11th, patrons can contribute to the Food For Kids program at the Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma. This initiative aims to address child hunger by ensuring that every dollar counts towards providing meals for children in need. It’s a heartwarming way for attendees to enjoy the show while making a positive impact on the community.

The partnership between the car show and the food bank exemplifies how events can serve dual purposes—entertainment and social responsibility. Through this collaboration, visitors are encouraged to support local charities while enjoying the spectacle of custom cars. The generosity of attendees has the potential to make a significant difference in the lives of many children. With a maximum donation cap of $2,500, each ticket purchase represents a step towards reducing childhood hunger in Oklahoma. Those interested in contributing can visit starbirdcarshows.com to secure their tickets and help the cause.

Classic movie vehicles are taking center stage at the Detroit Auto Show, offering visitors a nostalgic journey through cinema history. The event, held at Huntington Place until January 20th, features an array of cars that have left an indelible mark on popular culture. Insurer Hagerty has curated a collection focusing on vehicles from the 80s and 90s, a period particularly cherished by a new generation of collectors. Among the highlights is a replica Ferrari Modena Spyder California, famously featured in "Ferris Bueller’s Day Off." Other notable exhibits include a modified Ford Crown Victoria resembling the Family Truckster from "National Lampoon’s Vacation" and a Pontiac Trans-Am styled after K.I.T.T. from "Knight Rider." This display not only celebrates automotive design but also underscores the enduring appeal of these iconic film props.

The decision to spotlight vehicles from the 80s and 90s was strategic, aiming to engage a younger audience with a deep appreciation for retro aesthetics. Claire Williams, Vice President of Marketing Strategy at Hagerty, explained their approach: “We wanted to bring something fun and engaging that resonates with today’s car enthusiasts.” Many of the showcased cars were sourced from local collector Mel Guthrie and institutions like the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles. The exhibit includes several other memorable rides, such as the Ferrari 308 GTSi from "Magnum P.I." Each vehicle tells a unique story, blending cinematic magic with automotive engineering.

A significant part of the exhibit's allure lies in its storytelling. For instance, the "Ferris Bueller" Ferrari isn’t what it seems. Due to budget constraints, the production team opted for a replica built by Modena Design, a company known for creating custom Ferraris. Only four units were made for the film, with three being drivable models powered by Ford V8 engines. One non-functional model was used in the film's climactic scene. Casey Maxon, Hagerty’s Senior Manager of Heritage, elaborated on the car’s historical significance: “This replica has been documented and preserved for future generations through our National Historic Vehicle Register, ensuring its legacy lives on.”

Beyond mere spectacle, this exhibit serves as a bridge between Hollywood and automotive history. By preserving these iconic vehicles, Hagerty aims to honor the cultural impact of classic movies and the cars that defined them. Throughout the duration of the Detroit Auto Show, attendees can immerse themselves in this unique blend of nostalgia and innovation, celebrating both the art of filmmaking and the craftsmanship of automotive design.