Classic car show opens for 5th season

Entertainment, food, music, and oh yes -- those classic cars.

Starting tonight, and each Thursday through the end of August, Barrington will host its annual Cruise Nights.

All types of classic vehicles will be on display, with prizes awarded to the top cars each week.

Barrington's marketing and events coordinator, Anne Garrette, said it's like a weekly block party.

"It is a lot of fun," said Garrette. "You hang out, look at cars and listen to music."

Cruise Night starts at 6:30 p.m. in the Harris Bank parking lot on South Cook Street, just south of Lake Cook Road. Admission is free.

Hundreds of people turn out each week for the event, which also has entertainment and food.

"We really are hoping we pick up a lot of new folks this year," she said.

Every Thursday night a different vehicle will be featured, like tonight's 4-speeds. Other nights will feature Corvettes, 4x4 trucks and convertibles.

All classic cars are welcome each week -- no signup is necessary, just drive right in -- but only the "featured" cars will be eligible for that week's prizes.

"It should be a nice way to welcome in summer," Garrette said.

Village President Karen Darch said it's an opportunity for neighbors to hang out with one another.

"If you like music and having a relaxing time with lots of fellow Barrington-area residents and looking at cool cars, then Cruise Night is definitely for you," Darch said.

Visit the village Web site, www.ci.barrington.il.us.

Cruise Nights

Weekly classic car shows at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, May 29-Aug. 28 in the Harris Bank parking lot on South Cook Street. Free admission.

Weekly featured cars:

• May 29: 4-speeds • June 5: Exotic cars • June 12: Mopar • June 19: Trucks/4x4 • June 26: Fords/Mercurys • July 3: Chevys • July 10: Sports/British cars • July 17: 70s Night • July 24: Corvettes • July 31: Oldsmobiles • Aug. 7: street rods • Aug. 14: Pontiacs • Aug. 21: convertibles • Aug. 28: Buicks