In 2014, as Rick Fischer put the finishing touches on plans for Roanoke’s first car show, he hoped it would draw enough people to become an annual tradition. He knew the event had gotten traction when its first year tally for cars on display reached 300 and total attendees topped 3,000. After its second year, when the show dubbed “Rolling Into Roanoke” drew more than 700 cars and 4,000 people, Fischer knew a tradition had been born.
This year marks the third annual Rolling Into Roanoke, and its lineup of attractions and activities looks to be even more impressive than those that came before it. The show will pay homage to 1950s era “Big Fin Rocket Cars,” a genre that spanned manufacturing years 1950 to 1962. A treat for the eyes, particularly in today’s era of function-over-form, Fischer notes, “Back then, cars were rolling pieces of art—sculptures. There’s some amazing artwork created by designers of that time.”
In addition to the Big Fins, Main Street will feature a tribute to the Corvette, dubbed “America’s favorite sports car.” A wide variety of historic stock and custom models will be on display with each one of Corvette’s seven model generations specifically highlighted. MOPARs (a special lineup of Chrysler performance cars 1962-74, 2006-17) will join the mix, as well as General Motors “Parade of Progress” Futureliner from Auburn’s National Automotive and Truck Museum.
Although the theme pays homage to these classics, visitors can see automobiles of all types on display. The event, which runs along Main Street and stretches into the park, serves as a hub for auto enthusiasts of all levels, whether they come to admire others’ or bring their own vehicles. From vintage classics to custom street rods to exotic sports cars, Rolling Into Roanoke offers something for every taste.
Attendees will also find a wide variety of food, entertainment and door prizes. More than a dozen food vendors are set to offer delectables from burgers to barbecue, Cajun to Asian, ice cream to wine slushies. Back for its second year, GM and UAW’s hospitality trailer will feature a Made-in-America exhibit and a remote control racetrack. Live music in the park provides the event’s soundtrack, and registered exhibitors can win door prizes.
“It has always been my goal to exhibit an all-ages show, geared to spectators,” says Fischer. “It’s a fun and rewarding show not only for the car owners, but also for everyone who attends.”
Proceeds from Rolling Into Roanoke, which takes place this year on Saturday, July 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., benefit the Roanoke Beautification Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, as well as the Auburn Cord Duesenberg and National Automotive and Truck Museum in Auburn. To view a show layout and a full list of attractions and vendors, visit rollingintoroanoke.com.
