48th Annual Eureka Springs Antique Auto Festival looking to set new attendance records (2018)
Longest running car show in the Ozarks looks to build on 2017 success with input from local business owners and show attendees
Eureka Springs, AR (March 1, 2018) – When the Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce changed venues and marketing initiatives last year for their annual antique auto festival, the successful results far exceeded their expectations. After flat attendance and declining car show entries for a number of years, the 2017 festival generated 250 car entries and more than 5000 attendees, a new record for the longest running car show in the Ozarks.
“In addition to a venue change providing greater car display space and more free parking last year, we sought the expertise of auto collectors, car club organizers and other communities driven by auto and motorcycle related tourism,” said Paul Miller, President and CEO of Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce. ”With their input and the support of local volunteers, we more than doubled attendance and vehicle registrations for this show, making it one of the most successful Chamber sponsored events in recent history. We have many more improvements in mind as we prepare for the 50th Anniversary of this popular community event,” added Miller.
The festival will continue to feature a parade of show cars through downtown Eureka Springs as part of the Great Bank Robbery re-enactment, held annually for over thirty years. Other improvements this year include a reduced entry fee for cars show and parade entries, wider variety of vendors, additional door prizes, new sponsors and more show related events to build traffic for local businesses.
Early registration available Friday September 7 from 3 to 5 pm at the Great Passion Play, entry fee for car show and parade through downtown is $25 per vehicle. Festival starts at 8 a.m., on September 8 and features music, a variety of vendors, door prizes and photo opportunities. Judging starts at 9 a.m. and winners announced at 3 p.m. for over 25 award categories. The Great Bank Robbery and parade begins at 4 p.m. Vendor space available for $50 - $75 for both days. Click here for entry forms. Entry deadline is August 26.
The Great Passion Play is located at 935 Passion Play Road; admission to the grounds is free to the public. RV parking, campsites, gift shop and art museum on-site and trolley service available to historic downtown. Event proceeds benefit Eureka Springs Echo Community Clinic. For more information, visit www.Antiqueautofest.com, www.eurekaspringschamber.com or call Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce at (479) 253-8737.
The Greater Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce is a member organization with more than 350 member businesses and organizations. The Chamber mission is to foster business and cultural growth of the community, contribute to the quality of life, promote tourism and enrich economic vitality through positive leadership, via an active network of support and collaboration.
