Classic cars, emergency vehicles, and family fun will take over Maiden Lane Park in St. Joseph later this month during the Annual Benefit Car Show, a collaborative effort between the Berrien County Firefighters Association and the Berrien County Sheriff’s Department.
The event is set for Saturday, June 28, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with gates opening at 7:00 a.m. at Maiden Lane Park (1051 Maiden Lane, St. Joseph – the soccer fields). Admission is free for the public, and all proceeds from the day will be split between the two hosting organizations, both of which operate as 501(c)(3) nonprofits.
A highlight of the event will be the Cacklefest Nitro Cars Fire-Up, scheduled for noon, giving attendees a chance to experience the roar of vintage dragsters up close. The day also features a silent auction, food vendors, DJ Hunter Wright, and a bounce house fire truck for the kids.
Those interested in showing their vehicles can register at the gate for a $10 entry fee per car. There is no charge for swap meet vendors, with free 20’ x 20’ spaces available. Event t-shirts will be sold on-site.
The Opening Ceremony takes place at 9:30 a.m., and awards will be presented by both the firefighters and the Sheriff’s Department.
Additional attractions include a pancake breakfast hosted by the St. Joseph Masonic Lodge #437 starting at 7:30 a.m., along with displays of fire trucks and police cars throughout the day.
For more information, contact:
- Show Chairman: Steve Wright at (269) 876-7454 or wrightsarmynavy@gmail.com
- Vehicle Info: John McLellan at (269) 580-2770 or jmclellan75@comcast.net
- Swap Meet: Bob Basselman at (269) 861-6078 or robert49085@gmail.com
- Fire & Police Displays: Gerry Kabelman at (269) 208-9352 or Bruce Cole at (269) 208-0686
Organizers extend a special thanks to St. Joseph Charter Township for the use of the park. Proceeds will help fund equipment and initiatives that support local volunteer firefighters and the county’s law enforcement personnel.
