Get ready, car enthusiasts and families! The annual O’Reilly Auto Parts Rod & Custom Car Show is pulling into Monticello, promising a weekend packed with gleaming chrome, powerful engines, and entertainment for all ages. Hosted at the Berndes Center located at 766 N. Maple St., this year’s show is set to be bigger and better, highlighted by a special guest appearance that’s sure to thrill fans of classic television and automotive culture alike. If you’re looking for a fantastic event centered around amazing vehicles and family fun, look no further than this Monticello car show, proudly supported by O’Reilly Auto Parts.
Meet Luke Duke from ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’
Adding star power to this year’s event is none other than Tom Wopat, widely recognized and loved for his iconic role as Luke Duke in the legendary TV series, ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’. Fans will have the chance to meet Wopat, get autographs, and snap photos with him during scheduled appearances from noon to 4 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, and again from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Organizer Galen Muller notes the excitement around Wopat’s visit, recalling the successful appearances of other ‘Dukes of Hazzard’ cast members in previous years. With a strong local fan base for the show, Wopat’s presence is expected to draw significant crowds, making this a must-attend event for any ‘Dukes’ devotee and car show enthusiast. Beyond his role as Luke Duke, Wopat has enjoyed a successful career on Broadway and in country music, showcasing his diverse talents to audiences nationwide.
Automotive Extravaganza Showcasing Monticello Car Parts Culture
The heart of the O’Reilly Auto Parts Rod & Custom Car Show is, of course, the stunning array of vehicles. The Berndes Center will be filled with approximately 40 to 45 cars and 15 to 20 motorcycles, all competing for prestigious awards and prizes. Attendees get to participate in the excitement by voting for the coveted People’s Choice Awards, giving everyone a voice in celebrating their favorite rides. This event isn’t just a display; it’s a celebration of automotive artistry and the vibrant car parts culture that thrives in communities like Monticello. Whether you’re a seasoned gearhead or simply appreciate the beauty of classic and custom vehicles, there’s something to captivate everyone.
Awards and Recognition
The competition is fierce, with vehicle owners vying for recognition in various categories. The awards presentation on Sunday at 7 p.m., emceed by 3-D Sound Company’s disc jockey Dave Palmer, is a highlight, celebrating the craftsmanship and dedication of the participants. Beyond bragging rights, these awards acknowledge the hard work and passion poured into each vehicle on display, reflecting the spirit of the rod & custom community.
Family Fun and Entertainment Beyond Car Parts
The O’Reilly Auto Parts Rod & Custom Car Show is designed to be a family-friendly event with entertainment extending beyond the incredible vehicles.
Musical Entertainment and Emcee
Dave Palmer from 3-D Sound Company will be providing the soundtrack for the weekend, setting the mood with music and also serving as the emcee for the Sunday awards ceremony.
Family Entertainment
For the younger attendees, ‘Papa Balloon’ Mark Garvey, a talented balloon artist, will be on hand to entertain children with his amazing creations. Adding another layer of artistry, David Fliss will be present to draw fun and memorable caricatures, providing personalized keepsakes from the event.
Model Car Contest
Adding an interactive element, there will be a model car contest, open to all entrants. Model car enthusiasts will have their creations judged for a People’s Choice Award, with trophies and model kits up for grabs as prizes. This contest encourages participation from all ages and skill levels, fostering a love for automotive design and detail.
Plan Your Visit to the Monticello Car Show
Anticipation is building for this weekend’s show, and while organizer Muller acknowledges weather’s influence on turnout, he’s optimistic for a strong attendance, potentially around 4,000 visitors if conditions are favorable. Last year’s attendance was affected by inclement weather, but with a promising forecast, this year is shaping up to be a hit.
Show Hours and Admission
Mark your calendars for show hours: Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is reasonably priced at $10 for adults and $5 for children under 12. Even better, children 12 and under get in free when accompanied by a paid adult, making it an affordable family outing. Plus, attendees can receive a $1 discount on admission by bringing a canned food item to support Four Oaks family programs, a fantastic way to give back to the community while enjoying the show. Parking is free for all attendees.
Contact Information
For more details about the O’Reilly Auto Parts Rod & Custom Car Show, visit www.rodandcustomcarshow.com or call (319) 465-5119. For inquiries during the event weekend, please call (319) 465-6640. Don’t miss out on this exciting weekend celebrating cars, community, and family fun in Monticello!
