Cruisin’ to Newton season closes Saturday

Cruisin’ to Newton will host its final car show of the year from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday on the north and west sides of the square in downtown Newton.

The first show, which took place Aug. 9, attracted 44 cars. Weekend Pit Stop Executive Director Libbie Marshall said she thinks this show will have more.

“We don’t care what kind of car you have, or how old it is, if you want to come and display your car, just pay the registration fee and come on in,” Marshall said.

A special appearance will be made by “Mater” from the Disney movie “Cars.” Children are invited to come and get their picture taken with the truck.

There are four categories for the cars to compete in including Best Antique, Best Classic, Best Modified and Best Future Classic. It is a people’s choice award, so those who attend will decide the outcome. Marshall said they had great attendance at the first Cruisin’ to Newton and hopes for an even bigger event this Saturday.

Along with the car show, tailgating events will be taking place on the square for the Iowa vs. Iowa State game. Those at the tailgate are invited to stop by the car show as well.

Along with the cars, food vendors will be set up and a performance by the classic rock band Rockhound, based out of Newton, will take place.

Marshall plans to have Cruisin’ to Newton following every Thunder Nites next year, making it “a perfect weekend pit stop.”  Weekend Pit Stop is a nonprofit organization working to promote Newton and currently has three events on their schedule: Thunder Nites, Cruisin’ to Newton and Nothin’ New in Newton.

Contact Staff Writer Jamee A. Pierson at (641) 792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com.