Beaches Cruise-In: The Beaches Summertime Cruisin, which takes place on Wednesday evenings from July through September at the Portland International Raceway, brings more than 1,000 hot rods, exotic sports cars, and motorbikes to the grass to watch the dragsters compete as there’s also late-night drags. Beaches is the place to be for motorheads of all ages, thanks to its excellent cuisine, which includes wood-smoked BBQ specialties, live music, and a shaded picnic area. Watch the video below for a sample of some of the cars!
History of Beaches Cruise-In
The Beaches Cruise-In has a rich history that dates back to its inception at the Vancouver site of the Beaches Restaurant. Over the years, the event has grown in popularity, attracting a diverse range of participants and spectators. Some memorable moments include the unveiling of rare vintage cars and the participation of renowned drag racers. The event’s relocation to the Portland International Raceway 18 years ago marked a new chapter in its history, allowing for an even larger gathering of motor enthusiasts.
Impact on the Local Community
The Beaches Cruise-In has had a significant impact on the local community. The proceeds from the event have funded various outreach organizations, supporting initiatives ranging from educational programs to food drives. The event has not only become a summer highlight but also a vital contributor to local community development
Beaches Cruise-In Compilation
Enjoy this collection of muscle cars and hot rods from a 2021 Beaches Cruise-In event I attended. So many beautiful cars. In the summer months, the Beaches Summertime Cruisin’ draws an average of 1,200 automobiles to the track every Wednesday night during the summer months. The Beaches Summertime Cruise-In began at the Vancouver site of the Beaches Restaurant before relocating to the racetrack 18 years ago.
Wednesday Night Drags and Beaches Summertime Cruisin
Portland International Raceway hosts classic cars and finely tuned race cars on Wednesday nights as part of E.T. Drag races and Beaches Summertime Cruisin. As part of the weekly Beaches Cruise-In, more than 1,000 cars, trucks, and motorcycles from pre-1974 will be arriving at the raceway starting at 4 p.m. You can admire everything from Corvette to Mercedes as spectators walk along with the classic cars. The cost of general admission is $10 a person, with all proceeds going to the Beaches Restaurant for various outreach organizations.
A spectator can walk just a few hundred meters to the drag strip, where they can witness race cars in their elapsed times or E.T. drag racing. E.T. racing is where cars of different speeds race to give the slower car a lead. Timed runs start at 4:30 pm, with elimination races beginning at 7:30.
Portland Cars and Coffee – Langer’s in Sherwood, Oregon
What Is the Distinction Between a Car Show and Beaches Cruise-In?
Car gatherings can be a great hobby and a fun pastime. There are many people who have different tastes and preferences about cars. These events are a great way to meet other car enthusiasts. You may see on flyers or announcements that a particular car gathering is called either a “car show” (or “cruise-in”), and many people wonder if the difference between them.
What is the difference between a Beaches Cruise-In and a car show? Car shows are formal and often require fees for all participants. You will often find prizes, as well as food, music, and swap meets. A cruise-in is a less formal event that involves a small group of people meeting in a parking lot or a park for a few hours. There is no charge.
It is easy to confuse car shows with cruise-ins. However, they have the same goal: they allow people to show off their cars and allow others to share their appreciation for the automobile. So visit the Beaches Cruise-In and just have fun!
Participant Experiences
Participants of the Beaches Cruise-In often speak highly of their experiences. Car owners take pride in showcasing their prized vehicles, while spectators enjoy the variety of cars on display. Local vendors also appreciate the business opportunities the event brings. One participant shared, ‘There’s nothing like the roar of engines under the summer sky. The Beaches Cruise-In is a celebration of automotive passion.
Guide to Attending Beaches Cruise-In
If you’re planning to attend the Beaches Cruise-In, here are a few tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially if you’re interested in the drag races. Don’t forget to bring a hat and sunscreen for daytime protection and a jacket for the cooler evening hours. Check out the food vendors for a variety of delicious options, and make sure to take a walk around the entire venue to fully appreciate the range of cars on display.
Future of Beaches Cruise-In
Looking ahead, the Beaches Cruise-In plans to continue its tradition of celebrating automotive passion. While the core elements of the event will remain, organizers are always looking for ways to enhance the experience for participants and spectators. Whether it’s introducing new categories of cars or expanding the range of food vendors, the future of the Beaches Cruise-In promises to be as exciting as its illustrious past.