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A cherished tradition in Orleans, Indiana, is set to return with the 40th edition of the Robert Lamm Memorial Day Car Show. Taking place on May 26, 2025, this event promises a day filled with classic cars, community spirit, and remembrance. The gathering will feature an array of vehicles, food trucks, live music, and raffle opportunities. Visitors can enjoy offerings from various local vendors while paying tribute to fallen military personnel. Admission fees support the event's organization and honor the legacy of Robert Lamm.

This car show not only highlights automotive culture but also serves as a tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. With awards presented at the end of the day and family-friendly activities available throughout, it offers something for everyone. The event aligns with the broader tradition of Memorial Day celebrations across the United States, where communities come together to remember and celebrate.

Celebrating Four Decades of Automotive Enthusiasm

The Robert Lamm Memorial Day Car Show has become a cornerstone of Orleans' cultural calendar, marking its 40th anniversary in 2025. Scheduled to occur in Congress Square, this year’s event will bring together car enthusiasts and families alike. Running from noon until early evening, the car show will showcase a diverse collection of vehicles, ranging from vintage classics to modern marvels. Participants can register early to secure their spot in this prestigious lineup.

Since its inception, the car show has grown into a vibrant celebration of all things automotive. Each year, it draws crowds eager to admire the craftsmanship and history behind these machines. In addition to the vehicle displays, attendees can indulge in culinary delights provided by popular local vendors such as Smokin’ Browns and Brother B’s Homemade Ice Cream. A 50/50 raffle adds excitement, offering visitors a chance to win while supporting the event’s charitable mission. By combining nostalgia with contemporary attractions, the car show creates an unforgettable experience for all ages.

Remembering Heroes Through Community Spirit

More than just a display of automobiles, the Robert Lamm Memorial Day Car Show embodies the spirit of commemoration. As part of the national observance of Memorial Day, the event pays homage to service members who lost their lives defending the nation. Held in memory of Robert Lamm, the occasion underscores the importance of honoring personal legacies alongside national sacrifices. With tickets priced at $20 per person, proceeds contribute to sustaining this meaningful tradition.

At the heart of the car show lies a deep commitment to remembering those who gave everything for their country. The timing of the event aligns perfectly with Memorial Day, ensuring that participants reflect on the significance of the holiday. At 4 p.m., awards ceremonies cap off the day, recognizing outstanding entries among the showcased vehicles. These moments reinforce the connection between automotive passion and patriotic pride. Furthermore, the inclusion of live music and food options transforms the square into a lively hub of activity, drawing people together in shared appreciation and gratitude. This harmonious blend of entertainment and reflection makes the Robert Lamm Memorial Day Car Show a standout event within Indiana’s annual calendar.

A nostalgic car show is set to take place in Salem, reviving the spirit of the former Arby’s car cruise while raising funds for a worthy cause. Scheduled for May 31 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., this event will benefit The Brightside Project, an organization dedicated to community support and development. Held at 1909 N. Ellsworth Ave., with a rain date on June 14, the event promises a day filled with classic cars, food, raffles, and live music. Participants can register starting at 8 a.m. for just $5, with early registrants receiving commemorative dash plaques. Awards will be handed out at noon, followed by cruising until 5 p.m.

This gathering not only celebrates automotive history but also offers attendees a pancake and sausage breakfast available for donations, door prizes, a Chinese auction, and various raffles. Among the highlights is a tire raffle offering a certificate worth $700 for four Firestone or Bridgestone tires, generously sponsored by Firestone Complete Auto Care. Tickets for the raffles are priced at $5 each and can be purchased either on-site or beforehand by contacting The Brightside Project.

The inspiration behind the reunion came from Micheal Greenamyer, a board member of The Brightside Project. Recalling his father's involvement in the past Arby’s Car Cruise, Greenamyer approached Gene Johnson, who had organized those events for years, to create a similar experience as a fundraiser. Johnson enthusiastically embraced the idea, aiming to bring together over 250 vehicles and showcase a rare gem of automotive history—a 1967 Plymouth RO23 Super Stock Car once driven by Ferris Motors. Only 55 such models were ever produced, making it a true collector's item.

Charlie and Denise Caldwell acquired this historic vehicle from its original owner in Illinois and meticulously restored it over seven years to its authentic racing condition. Their efforts earned them a prestigious Concourse Gold award at the MCNCN Car Show in Chicago, scoring nearly perfect points. According to Johnson, every detail of the car, from the paint to the hardware, has been verified by Chrysler Corporation as entirely original.

As the clock ticks closer to the event, organizers invite enthusiasts to join in celebrating both automotive heritage and charitable giving. For more details, interested parties may reach out directly to Gene Johnson. This car show aims to reconnect tradition with modern-day philanthropy, creating a memorable experience for all involved.