In the heart of Daytona Beach, a vibrant celebration of automotive history unfolded during the Spring Daytona Turkey Run in April 2025. This event, renowned for its impressive display of historic racecars and wild Pro Street vehicles, did not disappoint enthusiasts. The gathering reaffirmed the enduring appeal of Pro Street culture, showcasing both restored classics and innovative builds. Captured by Tommy Lee Byrd, the event highlights a mix of nostalgia and modernity, attracting car lovers from all walks of life.
A Glimpse into the Spectacular Spring Daytona Turkey Run
Set against the backdrop of the iconic Daytona International Speedway, this year's Spring Daytona Turkey Run featured an awe-inspiring array of vehicles that spanned decades of automotive evolution. Among the standout attractions were meticulously preserved historic racecars housed in the NASCAR garages, each carrying tales of speed and competition. In the golden light of spring, visitors marveled at a chopped and channeled Ford Model A coupe towing a single-axle trailer behind it. This trailer carried a historic Chassis Research front-engine dragster powered by a SCoT blown Flathead V8 engine, a testament to engineering brilliance from another era. Although the turnout was slightly smaller than its autumn counterpart, the enthusiasm among attendees remained palpable, with countless stunning Pro Street cars drawing admiration from the crowds.
From a journalist's perspective, the Spring Daytona Turkey Run serves as a powerful reminder of the timeless allure of classic automobiles. It bridges generations, uniting those who cherish the past with innovators shaping the future. Events like these underscore the importance of preserving automotive heritage while encouraging creativity in custom builds. They inspire us to reflect on how traditions evolve over time without losing their essence, offering a glimpse into a world where passion meets craftsmanship. Ultimately, such gatherings foster community spirit among car enthusiasts worldwide.
An eagerly anticipated automotive extravaganza is set to take over Syracuse, marking a quarter-century milestone. The Syracuse Nationals car show, one of the largest in the northeastern United States, will once again transform the New York State Fairgrounds into a hub of car culture from July 18 to 20. This special anniversary edition promises an array of events that celebrate both past achievements and future innovations in the automotive world.
This year's event will feature a variety of exhibits highlighting some of the most impressive vehicles from the past two-and-a-half decades. Visitors can also meet legendary figures in the automotive industry as well as popular television personalities. To enhance the celebratory atmosphere, live performances and entertainment will run throughout the weekend. In addition, there will be an expanded marketplace showcasing leading brands in the automotive sector, with more than forty new vendors joining the lineup for this occasion.
A series of giveaways and contests will offer attendees exclusive items commemorating the show's silver jubilee. One highlight will be Supercar Sunday, where high-performance automobiles will be on display, providing unique photo opportunities while supporting a charitable cause. Funds raised will contribute towards building a car-themed playground at Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital, initiated by the Skaneateles Cares Car Club.
Fans of Count's Kustoms will have the chance to see cast members and enjoy a concert by Danny Koker’s band, Count’s 77. Additional attractions include iconic vehicles such as the Batmobile, George Jetson's flying car, Scooby-Doo’s Mystery Machine, and thrilling stunts like the Wall of Death presented by the American Motor Drome Company.
In honor of Gene Winfield, a tribute will introduce the Gene Winfield Legacy Award along with a mini-museum inside the Expo Center showcasing his contributions to car design and customization. Co-owner Ed Levine expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from participants, sponsors, and enthusiasts, promising an even grander experience celebrating the passion of the car community.
As the Syracuse Nationals celebrates its 25th year, it continues to grow as a platform for automotive innovation and tradition. With a rich program designed to captivate all ages, this year's event sets out to not only entertain but also inspire future generations of car lovers. Automotive aficionados are encouraged to mark their calendars and prepare for what promises to be a memorable weekend filled with excitement and nostalgia.
In a significant shift towards inclusivity, Rick Ross's annual Car & Bike Show is set to embrace new measures ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Last year, the event faced legal challenges due to its lack of wheelchair-friendly provisions. This year, however, Ross has committed to providing enhanced accommodations, including shuttle services tailored for wheelchair users. The change comes after Darris Straughter, a fan with disabilities, filed a lawsuit alleging that his pre-arranged transportation failed to materialize and his ticket was non-refundable. Lawyers involved in the case see this as a victory not only for Straughter but also for other disabled attendees who have voiced similar concerns.
Attorneys representing Darris Straughter recently announced a court triumph following Rick Ross's decision to upgrade the accessibility features of his Fayetteville, Georgia-based car show. Under the new arrangements, guests requiring wheelchairs will benefit from round-trip shuttle services designed specifically to accommodate their needs, dropping them off at designated parking areas reserved for those with disabilities. These changes are part of an ongoing legal battle where Straughter seeks compensation for past grievances related to the event's inaccessibility. His attorney, John Hoover, praised the development, emphasizing that even golf carts would now be available for wheelchair users, marking a significant milestone in the litigation process.
Hoover further remarked that while the defendants maintain their innocence, the implementation of these adjustments underscores the necessity for reform. According to him, if there were no issues, there would be no need for such improvements. The litigation remains active as Straughter continues to pursue damages resulting from the alleged ordeal experienced during previous editions of the car show. Despite the ongoing proceedings, Ross's team has confirmed that the fourth edition of the event will proceed as scheduled on June 7, 2025, promising a more inclusive experience for all participants.
Beyond the courtroom drama, the enhancements signal a positive step toward making entertainment events more accessible to everyone. As the music industry increasingly prioritizes inclusivity, Rick Ross's move sets a precedent for others to follow. With improved access and facilities, the upcoming Car & Bike Show aims to create a welcoming atmosphere for all attendees, reflecting a broader commitment to diversity and inclusion within the community. The initiative demonstrates that addressing accessibility concerns can lead to a richer and more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.