Oakbrook car show provides memories for Dad

After Dad opens his Father's Day gift ("Oh, a tie! Just what I wanted!") and before you head to dinner ("Ah, Dad, I'm a little short this week, would you mind paying?") you might consider spending a couple hours with him contemplating chrome and running boards at Oakbrook Center.

More than 100 classic autos will be on display as part of the center's 41st annual Father's Day Classic Car Show from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. today at 100 Oakbrook Center in Oak Brook.

Organizers say it's one of the Midwest's largest open-air classic car exhibitions and it usually draws about 75,000 people - many of whom know the difference between a Cord and a Duesenberg and are happy to tell you about it.

The free event features vehicles dating from the early 1900s through the 1960s.

"A lot of these cars are rare and one-of-a-kind," said Suzanne Beres, senior marketing manager at Oakbrook Center.

Beres said the show brings generations of families together and gives them the opportunity to discuss tough topics such as how headlights have changed over the years.

"It's an interest that the young and old really appreciate and gives families something to share on Father's Day," she said.

In addition, Brookfield Zoo will have a crushed car display (dinosaurs did it!) and conduct children's workshops.

With 90 percent of exhibitors from the Chicago area, Beres said it gives them an opportunity to see their neighbors and meet new people while showing off their vehicles.

Organized by the Greater Illinois Region of the Classic Car Club of America, the show's sponsors are the Continental Motors Group and the Daily Herald.

For details, visit www.oakbrookcenter.com.