Cruising Downtown's 25th charity car show
The Cruising Downtown classic car show returns to Manchester, New Hampshire, on September 5, expecting up to 1,000 cars and 50,000 visitors to raise funds
Cruising Downtown marks its 25th charity car show in Manchester, New Hampshire, on Saturday, September 5. Organizer Brad Fournier expects 800 to 1,000 classic cars and between 30,000 and 50,000 visitors for the free-admission event, which raises money for local charities.
Fournier, co-owner of Ron's Toy Shop, is in his fifth year as the main organizer. He works with the Manchester Rotary Club and other local groups to run the event his father started in 2000. The show was skipped one year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fournier said his father's inspiration came from attending car shows in Massachusetts, loving cars and giving back to the community.
Event Details and Growth
The show will stretch along Elm Street from Bridge to Granite streets, with an expansion onto Bridge Street to accommodate more cars and vendors. Fournier noted the event's consistent growth through word of mouth, now attracting registrants from as far away as Pennsylvania. For car enthusiasts planning their own events, check our fixtures page.
Fournier said the event grows a little every year, with 800-plus cars expected on a nice day.
In addition to the cars, there will be food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, and four bands performing on two stages. Downtown restaurants and businesses will be open throughout the day.
The Cars and Their Stories
The field is dominated by classic models like Chevrolet Chevelles, Camaros, and Ford Mustangs, but newer and more exotic cars also appear. Fournier emphasized that many vehicles have a personal history that adds to the show's appeal. You can explore detailed stats on classic car trends.
Fournier said there is often a story behind the owner's car, such as it being their first car or an inherited vehicle they restored.
Phil Manro, founder of the New Hampshire Muscle Cars Club, is among the enthusiasts returning. His club, started in 2018 with 25 to 30 members, has grown to more than 13,400 members across New England. The club has participated in Cruising Downtown each year since 2019.
Manro said his club really enjoys how the whole community in the Manchester area comes together. His club will have about 100 member cars participating this year.
Charity Focus and Goals
Cruising Downtown raises money for Manchester-area charities, with a focus on families and young people. This year, organizers are also highlighting leukemia awareness and stem cell donation.
Fournier stated the event's record single-day fundraising total is $78,000. He said his dream would be to push it over $100,000, which would be an incredible goal.
Admission to the show is free, with a suggested donation of $5 per person. A $20 donation earns an event T-shirt.
