Onawa's 28th Annual Blast from the Past Graffiti Night

Members of the “Classics” Car Club hosted Onawa, Iowa’s 28th Annual Blast from the Past GRAFFITI NIGHT Saturday, June 16, 2012 at Michael’s Drive-In. Although the event officially kicked-off at 4:00 p.m., vehicles were already seen cruisin’ Onawa before noon in spite of early morning sprinkles. Heavy rains in Omaha to the south and Sioux City to the north may have kept some participants from venturing out, but the weather cleared out for the event attracting 321 rods, kustoms and special interest vehicles. Graffiti Night also featured a number of exhibits and displays, along with vendors, a D.J. and live remotes by Z98’s van. The “Take a Kid to a Car Show” theme was emphasized, with over 150 youngsters in attendance designated as “Official Judges” for a Kid’s Choice trophy. The youngsters were very excited about being a part of the event and also participated in a Hot Rod Coloring Contest and other games for prizes. A large number of really nice door prizes provided by area merchants and nationally-known suppliers, including oil and car care products. Everyone entering a vehicle received a “goodie bag” and souvenir dash plaque. Full-color souvenir Tees were also available during the event. By 8:00 p.m., a large number of the rods, kustoms and classics of every description were lined-up for the Cruise Down the Widest Main Street in the U.S.A. and Onawa’s “infamous” Tenth Street Loop. The long procession of vehicles cruised side-by-side and then out to Lewis & Clark State Park, along the shores of Blue Lake. . .a line of cars estimated to be some 8 to 10 miles long!! Those cruising passed by many businesses with banners welcoming them to town, and Onawa’s historic Iowa Theater’s restored neon marquee featured Welcome Hot Rodders to Graffiti Night. Hundreds of people lined Iowa Avenue, Main Street and the parking lots at St. John’s Catholic Church, Fiesta Foods and Sparkys. Hundreds of cool cars were received by cheers and applause as they passed by the waiting crowds. After the Cruise, many participants headed for home, although a few opted to stay the night at the host hotel. Others went back to Michael’s for some more bench racing and socializing before calling it a night. Suds ‘n Jugs hosted a live band and many others enjoyed a good time there to close out the night. There were a lot of good comments about the event all day. As is the case every year, many were in attendance that had never attended the event in the past or had heard so many good comments about it they finally had to make sure they were here. Others that didn’t bring there vehicles said they were going to tell their friends and be sure and attend next year!!