Vintage snowmobiles get a place to show off in Wauconda

If old cars can have their day at various shows, why not snowmobiles?

That's the theory of John Lindberg, who's helped organize the Vintage Snowmobile Ride & Show from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 8 at Cook Park in Wauconda. The event is sponsored by the 42-year-old Wauconda Snowmobile Club.

Lindberg said such shows are gaining popularity in Minnesota and other northern states. He was part of a similar event another snowmobile club hosted last year at Lakewood Forest Preserve near Wauconda.

"A lot of fun," said Lindberg, 47."You get to see a lot of other snowmobiles and the ones you remember when you were younger."

Entry fee is $1 per sled, with registration starting at 9:30 a.m. Feb. 8. Admission is free and food and beverages will be available for purchase at the park, 600 N. Main St.

Snow or no snow, said Lindberg, the show will go on. There will be a $50 or $100 prize to the winner of the Peoples Choice Award, selected by those who attend the event.

Lindberg said snowmobiles from the early 1980s are considered vintage. Visitors are likely to see John Deere, Kawasaki, Johnson and other snowmobile brands no longer on the market.

"Compared to today's snowmobiles," Lindberg said, "you'll see some pretty primitive stuff."

Weather permitting, snowmobiles will be allowed on Cook Park's trails during the event.