Rock’n Red Deer aims to give you a glimpse of the past through the steel and chrome of classic cars.
Rock’n Red Deer is one of the premier automotive events in Western Canada and is held every three years at Westerner Park.
This year, the event is a week-long celebration of everything 1950s, ’60s and ’70s, running from July 30 to Aug. 5.
More than 1,000 vehicles will be on display and organizers promise the rock ’n’ roll theme will engage people of all ages.
“We feel this is going to be a family-oriented event that everyone can enjoy,” said Dick Wallace, president of the organizing committee for the event, Alberta Superrun Association.
“This event draws in people from Manitoba to Vancouver Island who bring their classic vehicles or just want to visit the great variety and nostalgia that comes with an event like this.”
The organizers love hosting the event in Red Deer because of the easy-to-access venue and the city’s central location.
Wallace said there has been an increased interest in classic cars from the era being celebrated and that has translated into the event getting bigger every time.
“We have a very vibrant following that really enjoys the car-collecting hobby,” said Wallace.
More than 10,000 people visited the event the last time it was in Red Deer so Wallace thinks there could be even bigger crowds this time around.
Dennis Gage, the host of the television show My Classic Car, will film an episode of his series on location, bringing Rock’n Red Deer to many more people around North America. Gage (with his famous handlebar moustache) appears weekly on the SPEED channel.
The event also supports local groups and fundraises for STARS. Wallace said they have been able to donate more than $90,000 towards the charitable organization through previous events.
The show will also feature musical entertainment provided by local disc jockey Doug DeNance (Dr. D), who Wallace describes as have a close resemblance to famous DJ Wolfman Jack.
One of the premier attractions of the event is the Downtown Cruise on Friday, Aug. 3. The cruise brings the classic cars out for everyone to enjoy.
Wallace said other events are also planned for the week.
The event is open to the public as participants or viewers. More information and vehicle registration are available on the event website at www.rocknreddeer.com.
Anyone who would like to volunteer can contact organizers at 403-396-7506 or by email at albertasuperrunassoc@shaw.ca.
cpapke@www.reddeeradvocate.com