The Mennonite Heritage Village (MHV) is set to welcome a nostalgic addition to its historical Main Street this weekend as the Country Classics Car Club comes to the village for its annual car show.
Robert Goertzen, executive director of MHV, says the partnership is a natural fit.
"The car club is preserving history with these vehicles as well, so there's a lot of ways that we have similar goals," he says.
Transportation has long been a theme at the museum, which also hosts events like the annual tractor drive and the Peace Trek cycling fundraiser.
"This is country classic car show is featuring antique trucks and cars, so we're really happy to be able to do this because it is part of our history," Goertzen says.
Bruce Martin, past president of the Country Classics Car Club, says the MHV has always been a welcoming venue. He expects a great turnout this year, with cars arriving from across southeastern Manitoba and Winnipeg.
"Come and show up on Saturday morning. Registration starts at 8 a.m., and the show begins at 9 a.m.," he says. "We've got signs on the highway to direct people to where to park."
In addition to the wide variety of vintage vehicles, Martin says there will be food—including ice cream—and a full lineup of family-friendly activities.
Sandra Kihn, fundraising coordinator for the car club, highlights some of the extras planned for the day, including a silent auction, 50/50 draw, t-shirt sales, and a tire change challenge.
"They actually have to change tires (speedily). So, throughout the day, they'll look at the top three people that are the fastest changing a tire," Kihn explains.
Live music will play throughout the day, and MHV will offer barrel rides for children, along with access to its farmyard animals and general store stocked with old-fashioned candy.
At 3 p.m., 10 awards will be presented by the club’s current president to standout vehicles owned by non-members.
Goertzen notes that the event takes place during MHV’s regular hours, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and regular admission rates to the village apply. Annual memberships are available for $40 per individual or $85 per family.
"There are lots of reasons to stop by," he says.
Written with files from Adi Loewen
Photos from a car show at MHV in 2024: