Silver Dollar Car Classic offers nostalgic trip down Memory Lane

Car buffs from the Carson City area and throughout the region will gather this weekend for the 18th Annual Silver Dollar Car Classic at Mills Park.

"It's a cool event," said Rich Crombie, spokesman for the gathering of classic-car lovers, which also will include features at the Plaza Hotel and Carson Nugget.

A cruise night plus a show 'n shine will begin at 6 p.m. Thursday, previewing the three-day weekend event. It is slated for The Plaza Hotel & Conference Center, 805 S. Carson St.

From 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, there is a welcoming reception and registration event for car participants only in the ballroom at Carson Nugget, at Carson and Robinson streets.

From 5 to 11 that night, in the parking lot west across Carson Street from the Nugget, there will be a free street dance.

"A lot of people come out," said Crombie, "listen to '50s and '60s music, eat, drink and dance" as they look at classic cars. The group Route 66 will provide live music.

From 8 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, Kiwanis pancake breakfasts are at Mills Park. Each weekend day, people can see classic cars and hot rods or browse vendors offering crafts and foods at the park. Saturday hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; the hours Sunday are 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Folks also will spot classic cars in the community. For example, a police-escorted parade of cars is set for 4:30 p.m. Saturday from Mills Park to the V&T Train Depot on Highway 50.

From 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday at the Carson Nugget, the Silver Dollar Sock Hop is scheduled. Participants with cars registered can attend for $5; the general public for $10. Included will be dance contests and a photo booth.

At 8 a.m. Sunday, a poker run to various area golf courses is planned, followed by a barbecue and an awards ceremony in Mills Park at 1 p.m.

Crombie said about half those participating come from this area, the other half from around the region. For example, one of last year's winners was from Yuma, Ariz.

He also said some come from outside the area for this event and then stay in the region for Reno's Hot August Nights.