Cruisin into the Next Chapter Classic Car and Truck Show, an annual event, Yolo County becomes a destination of retrospective, imagination, and togetherness each summer. On August 23, 2025, in Yolo, the streets were full of excitement as more than 900 people came to enjoy what the county considers one of the most celebrated events in the country, year after year. With the cooperation of the Yolo Branch Library and the Friends of the Yolo Branch Library, this show, once again, demonstrated that cars, culture, and community can make an event memorable.
A Celebration of Automotive Heritage
There are a few things that can match the excitement of watching history drive up the street in the precise form of polished chrome, idling engines, and chrome-dipped paint. This time, there were more than 100 vintage automobiles and trucks telling the history of the automobile industry. Ranging from pre-war vintage models to the marvelous features of the mid-century, the cars impressed the whole range of generations.
The Best of Show award was given to Michael McGinnis with his jaw-dropping 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air, a car that exposes the golden age of American automobiles. In the meantime, the 1948 Chevrolet Fleet Master by Johnny Cano won the Hot Pick of Fire Chiefs, which can serve as an example of the passion and craftsmanship that go into the restoration of vintage cars. Other category awards featured such categories as Stock Car 1900-1959, Tunnel Deck Red, and Best Chrome, the latter being won by a well-restored 1962 Corvette.
Besides the awards, it gave people an insight into the craftsmanship, commitment, and prowess behind people who own the cars and work on them tirelessly in the restoration and preservation. To hundreds of participants, the cars were much more than metal machines: they were the living histories reconnected with memories.
Youthful Creativity Shines at the Lowrider Bike Show
Along with the classic cars being the main attraction, the event also honored youth innovation by a lowrider bike show hosted by Yolo Woodland Scout Troop 69. This part of the event was most popular among parents with children, as it demonstrates the talent and skills of kids who could make some artwork of their own bike.
2025 Winners Announced:
- Stock Car 1900–1959: Arthur Castillo Sr., 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air
- Stock Car 1960–1999: John Vidales, 1964 Volkswagen Beetle
- Modified Car 1900–1959: Johnny Cano, 1948 Chevrolet Fleet Master
- Modified Car 1960–1999: Frank Morales, 1966 Chevrolet Impala
- Stock Truck 1900–1999: David Arriaga, 1959 Chevrolet El Camino
- Modified Truck 1900–1959: Rudy Rodriguez, 1957 Chevrolet Truck
- Modified Truck 1960–1999: Miguel Vazquez, 1968 Chevrolet C10
- Rat Rod 1900–1999: Tony Troglia, 1928 Ford Coupe
- Best Upholstery: Michael Sandoval, 1956 Ford Country Sedan Wagon
- Best Motor: Larry Main, 1947 Buick Super
- Best Paint Job: Frank Morales, 1966 Chevrolet Impala
- Best Chrome: Cirilo Jimenez, 1962 Chevrolet Corvette
Youth Lowrider Bike Show Highlights:
- Scout’s Choice Award: Jose Solorzano, Knights Landing
- Best 16” Lowrider Bike: Alex Solorzano, age 11, Knights Landing
- Best 20” Lowrider Bike: Emiliano Solorzano, age 13, Knights Landing
- Best 20” Lowrider Bike (2nd Place): Dominic Quezada, age 16, Robbins
- Best 26” Lowrider Bike: Jose Solorzano, age 16, Knights Landing
The bike show was quite a reminder that the love of machines, design, and innovation does not stop with time. By stimulating the potential creativity amongst the youth, such events are creating the building blocks to future engineers, designers, and leaders within the community.
A Day Full of Family Fun and Local Flavor
The Classic Car and Truck Show was not a simple car and truck show: it was also a one-day local community event. Attendees enjoyed:
- Antique Fire Trucks on display: The local fire services displayed antique fire engines to the enjoyment of children (and the adults too).
- Sustainable Agricultural and Sustainability Displays: Tractors, gas engines, and showcasing/demonstrations of sustainable-related practices (Yolo County, CA, has an agricultural background).
- Music and Entertainment: Rockwell Sound & Lighting was the entertainment firm that could keep things energetic with music being played through oldies to modern popular music.
- Family-friendly: Free face painting, music instrument stations, and kids' book giveaways made the events extremely family-friendly.
At the Yolo Branch Library, the variety of exhibits included a dedication to former librarian Irma Clarke, whose work at the library resulted in several display cases of items dedicated to her efforts in literacy and community service. There were also local artists who came and set up displays of their works as part of the flair of the day.
Community Effort at Its Finest
The success of the Classic Car and Truck Show reflects the incredible dedication of Yolo County’s community members. Over 80 volunteers contributed their time and energy to ensure the event ran smoothly. Local businesses and organizations, including VC Upholstery, Yolo Market, O’Reilly’s Auto Parts, and many others, provided vital support.
All proceeds from the event benefit the Friends of the Yolo Branch Library, which funds educational programs and services in Yolo, Zamora, and Dunnigan. These programs include literacy initiatives, youth engagement activities, and access to resources that strengthen the community year-round.
By blending fundraising with entertainment, the event demonstrates how communities can come together to support meaningful causes while having a great time.
Why Events Like This Matter
In a world where it is too easy to hide behind a screen, something like the Classic Car and Truck Show is invaluable when creating opportunities that, in the digital age, happen to be in your face. They unite individuals regardless of their ages, backgrounds, or interests, resulting in common experiences that build the community.
In addition to the display of vehicles, the Classic Car Show is a form of celebration that has to do with heritage, advancement, as well as collective pride. Car enthusiasts will find a nostalgic trip down memory lane to reminisce about the good old car design years, kids will delight at the shining fire truck, and residents will have a day of music and arts.
In addition to that, by associating it with the Yolo Branch Library, the organizers make it clear that community spaces and lifelong learning are very important. Libraries are not only about books to borrow but also centers of intelligence, creativity, and networking. Investing in them helps future generations to be equipped with the tools they require.
Looking Ahead: Cruising into the Future
As the sun faded at this year's show, one fact became apparent: the classic car and truck show has turned into more than a yearly event; it is a tradition. It continues to change year after year, implementing new features, while still remaining true to its core features.
The event was inspirational to many attendees, as well as bringing a lot of nostalgia. Not only is it a reminder that, when commemorated, history can drive future innovation. And in Yolo County, where such communities are in abundance, the future would be as gleaming as the chrome on a brand new polished classic car.
Stay Connected:
To find out more about the Friends of the Yolo Branch and what is happening in the future or ways you can donate, please visit their official site or find them on Facebook. Activities such as this are made possible by local support, and any given donation, whether large or small, will go a long way in keeping the gears of history in motion.
