Immerse Yourself in the Mechanical Marvels of Flemings Pumpkin Run
Section 1: The Allure of Flemings Pumpkin Run
Joe Grippo's calendar is filled with automotive events throughout the year, but the first Saturday in November is dedicated to a trip to Harry Fleming's Auto Parts in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey. Harry's junkyard hosts the renowned Fleming's Pumpkin Run, a rapidly growing and highly popular gathering that is transforming from a local show into a must-attend event. In just five years, its popularity has soared, thanks to word-of-mouth, social media, and the continuous coverage on BangShift.The variety of machinery that graces this event is astonishing. Whether you're a fan of vintage dirt track cars or classic big rig trucks, there's something for everyone. An onsite museum documents the history of southern New Jersey's dirt ovals, a testament to Harry Fleming's love for the sport. Original and restored race cars fill the fields, captivating the crowds.Section 2: The Diverse Exhibits
One section of the fields is reserved for classic big rig trucks, including vintage Macks, Diamond T's, Kenworth's, and flat nose Pete's. Adding to the mechanical overload are antique heavy equipment and tractors. On the other side, there's a large contingent of two-wheelers like choppers, trikes, and restorations from Triumph, Indian, and Harley Davidson. Plates from neighboring states are represented, showcasing the wide reach of this event. From muscle cars like Boss Mustangs and big block Mopars to street rods and slammed trucks, every type of vehicle is present. Pro Street, straight axle freaks, and street machines from different eras add to the visual feast. Custom vans are also making a comeback, with several impressive "Sin Bins" in attendance.Section 3: Beyond the Show Fields
In addition to the main show fields, don't miss the mesmerizing Hit & Miss engine and vintage power equipment displays. You can pick up a fresh cut cedar shingle souvenir with the burned-in Pumpkin Run logo right in front of you. The flea market area is perfect for trinket hunting, and the food truck offerings are worth the lines. A Sausage and Pepper sandwich paired with an overpriced Root Beer with unlimited refills is a must-try. Don't forget to take home a few bags of fresh Kettle Popcorn! And the onsite junkyard in the surrounding woods holds more surprises.See you there in 2025 and experience the magic for yourself. Click here for more info: https://www.flemingspumpkinrun.com/CLICK HERE IF YOU MISSED THE PREVIOUS GALLERIES OF PHOTOSUncover the Mechanical Marvels at Flemings Auto Parts Pumpkin Run!
Section 1: The Diverse Automotive Collection
The variety of vehicles at the Pumpkin Run is truly astonishing. Vintage dirt track machinery holds a special place here, with an onsite museum documenting the long-gone dirt ovals that once peppered southern New Jersey. Harry Fleming, the owner, was a big sponsor and fan of these roundy-round dirt slingers and now preserves their memories. Original and restored race cars are a common sight, adding to the excitement.Moreover, a section of the fields is dedicated to classic Big Rig trucks. These include vintage Macks, Diamond T’s, Kenworth’s, and flat nose Pete’s. When combined with the antique heavy equipment and tractors, it’s a mechanical overload. On the other side, there’s always a large group of two-wheelers like choppers, trikes, and restorations from Triumph, Indian, and Harley Davidson. Plates from neighboring states can be seen throughout the main show field. From muscle cars like Boss Mustangs and big block Mopars to street rods and slammed trucks, there’s something for every automotive enthusiast.Section 2: The Mesmerizing Displays
In addition to the extensive show fields, the Hit & Miss engine and vintage power equipment displays are truly mesmerizing. You can pick up a fresh cut cedar shingle souvenir with the burned-in Pumpkin Run logo right in front of you. The Flea Market area is great for trinket hunting, and the food truck offerings are worth the lines. A Sausage and Pepper sandwich paired with an overpriced Root Beer with unlimited refills is a must-try. Don’t forget to take home a few bags of fresh Kettle Popcorn!Section 3: The Surrounding Junkyard
The onsite junkyard in the surrounding woods is a hidden gem. It offers a unique opportunity to explore and discover hidden treasures. You never know what you might find among the rust and debris. It adds an extra dimension to the overall experience of the Pumpkin Run.See you there in 2025 and be prepared to be amazed by the Flemings Auto Parts Pumpkin Run Car Show. Click here for more info: https://www.flemingspumpkinrun.com/Uniting Classic Cars and Beautiful Routes
The "Vettoer" Tour - A Prelude to the Show
Before the main event, the "Vettoer" tour takes place. It has been a long-standing tradition, with this year being the 19th running. Sponsored by JP Spares in George, the entry list already includes a 1902 Peugeot, vintage Rolls-Royce cars, Model-T Fords, and at least five vintage motorcycles. Participants will overnight at the Gourikwa Coastal Nature Reserve on Thursday, February 6. After that, they'll travel to a lunch stop at Jakkalsvlei Winery and finally reach the George Old Car Show grounds on Friday afternoon to enjoy a braai at "die BENZ".
This tour showcases veteran vehicles and is a great way for car enthusiasts to get a taste of what's to come at the show. It's a journey that combines the love of classic cars with the beauty of the South African coastline.
The George Old Car Show - GOCS eSCape Tour and Rally
The second tour starts on Sunday, February 9, at "die BENZ", the clubhouse of the Southern Cape Old Car Club. Known as the George Old Car Show - GOCS eSCape Tour and Rally, it's a four-day event open to all cars registered for the show. The competitive rally is open to cars built before 1975 and follows regulations set by the South African Vintage and Veteran Association (SAVVA) and Motorsport South Africa (MSA).
Competitors need to nominate the average speeds for their cars over the timed sections of the rally, depending on the age of their vehicles. Veteran cars are those built before 1918, vintage cars up until 1930, and classic cars before 31st December 1975. Alongside the rally, there's a non-competitive tour for those who just want to enjoy their cars in beautiful scenery.
The GOCS eScape route takes the cars through various scenic locations. On Sunday, it heads for the Gourikwa Nature Reserve. On Monday, they travel over the Garcia Pass near Riversdale to Barrydale and then to Montagu. Tuesday explores the Breede River Valley, and on Wednesday, they return to George via Route 62.
Show Highlights and Sponsors
Entries for the 2025 George Old Car Show have been pouring in, with nearly 500 cars registered by the first week in December. This year, there's a special focus on British cars, with Bentley and Rolls-Royce taking center stage. Spectators can enter the show at 9 am on Saturday and enjoy exhibits from all major car-producing countries, along with a large contingent of vintage and classic motorcycles.
There will also be exhibits of more modern machinery, like supercars from Ferrari and Porsche. Club displays will include modern Mercedes-Benz models, and many dealerships in the George area will support the show with modern car ranges. The show is sponsored by several organizations and businesses, including the George Municipality, George Tourism, MUA Insurance, Standard Bank, JP Spares, Shield Chemicals, George Tyre Mart, the Volkswagen Auto Pavilion, and Midas. SAB and Coca-Cola are also major supporters.
The show's media partners are George Herald and Algoa FM, and numerous charities and volunteer beneficiary organizations will be involved, such as Rotary, Round Table, Lions, and the Vryburgers. Organisations like CANSA and SPCA, as well as local schools like Eden Technical High School and Carpe Diem School, will also benefit from the show.
As in past events, the 2025 George Old Car Show will be held at the Eden Technical High School grounds in central George, with gates opening at 9 am. Pre-booking of tickets through iTickets is encouraged, with prices of R125 for adults, R100 for pensioners, and children admitted free with adults.