Vintage Rides returns to downtown Wheaton with dedication of new plaza

Muscle cars and Model T's will vie for attention this summer during the 22nd annual Vintage Rides car show, which revs up the summer season with a special show on Friday, May 24.

The opening night's celebration theme of Pistons and Pinups will feature two models dressed in 1950s attire posing for selfies, live strolling entertainment along Front Street, a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new Martin Memorial Plaza and "Poppy," the official Vintage Rides DJ for the past 13 years.

After what was nearly a full year of streetscape construction along Front Street in downtown Wheaton (forcing the relocation of the car show to a much smaller venue last summer), Friday's celebration is especially important to the many car collectors that are happy to see the show return to Front Street.

The new streetscape features wider sidewalks, landscaping, cafe seating at Martin Memorial Plaza, new street lighting and improved parking.

The evening also recognizes the completion of the extensive streetscape project on Front Street that included the redesign and relocation of Martin Memorial Plaza. At 6:30 p.m., a rededication ceremony at the plaza will be conducted by members of the Wheaton City Council and representatives of the Martin family.

A giant ribbon imprinted with continuous W's (representing Wheaton) will be cut by members of the council, followed by cake and lemonade.

Entertainment will include a "living" statue, juggler, Hula-Hoop acrobat and face painter.

The Vintage Rides car show is from 6 to 9 p.m. Car collectors can begin parking along Front Street (between Hale and Cross Streets) starting at 5 p.m. There is no charge for exhibiting vintage and classic vehicles (cars, trucks and motorcycles). Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The shows are weekly through Aug. 23.

For details regarding Vintage Rides go to Downtownwheaton.com.

Vintage Rides is sponsored by the Downtown Wheaton Association.