The Sharon Car Show returns Saturday night after 2-year break

Show runs from 5 p.m. to dusk at Civic Centre parking lot in Sharon

Yorkregion.com
July 10, 2018
Simon Martin

The long wait for the Sharon Car Show is over. One of the most popular cars shows  in the region is back after a three-year hiatus. Classic cars once again rolled into the Civic Centre parking lot in Sharon July 7 to take part in the show also known as the Saturday Night Cool Country Cruise In.

Members of the former committee thought it was time to bring the car show back after a few years off.

“The car show gave a lot back to the community,” co-organizer Bev Engel said.

During the final show of 2015, all eight members of the car show organizing committee announced they were stepping down.

In a written statement on its Facebook page, the car show committee said it wanted to reclaim 20 Saturdays of summer the group had dedicated to running the car show the past seven years.

But it also cited disrespect from town council as a reason it was closing shop.

“It was never hidden from the town or you as participants that we were raising funds for charity and to help us improve the quality of the car show. But, apparently, at least one of our elected officials believed … differently and made sure it was pointed out to our committee representative at that public meeting. For us, as a committee, this was the final blow,” the statement said.

Car show organizer Ron Broad said the committee is ready to move forward and is not interested in bringing up past disagreements.  

The new car show will run from 5 p.m. to dusk on Saturday nights. Broad said the show has moved an hour later to help try and accommodate wedding ceremonies at the Sharon Temple next door. “We will do our best to be respectful,” he said. 

Over the years, the car show not only brought thousands of people to Sharon, but also raised thousands of dollars for various charities, including Wounded Warriors, East Gwillimbury Minor Hockey Association and St. John Therapy Dogs. 

This year, Broad said the car show will be raising money for Victim Services of York Region. “It’s important to give back to the community,” he said.

The money for charity is raised through 50/50 draws. Previously the car show was a town run committee but in its return the committee is no longer running under the auspices of the town. The town will still support the car show but from an arm’s length.

Council was excited to hear the news of the car show’s return.

“I thought it offered a great deal to the community that was unique,” Coun. Marlene Johnston said. “It’s a fun event for all ages.”

Mayor Virginia Hackson was also excited for the return of the car show. “I feel very strongly that it should return,” she said. “I spent many a Saturday here.” 

Broad said everybody is welcome to show up on Saturday night and catch a glimpse of the great cars and raise money for a good cause. “It’s a very good wholesome show,” he said.