Yardley VFW Car Show revs up community spirit

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On Sunday, June 8, the Yardley Lower Makefield Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 6393 hosted its 9th Annual Car Show, drawing an impressive crowd and a diverse lineup of classic and custom vehicles to the grounds at 1444 Yardley Newtown Road.

“This was our ninth annual event, and it’s grown into something special for both the veterans and the community,” said John Kirby, event coordinator and a member of the post for the past two years. “We had approximately 100 cars turn up and about 500 or so spectators.”

Open to the public and free for spectators, the event celebrated automotive excellence while raising funds to support local veterans. Entry fees from the vehicles went directly to the post’s general fund, aiding the organization’s vital work in assisting veterans and their families.

“It’s about coming together for a good cause,” Kirby explained. “The proceeds help us support the post and directly assist our veterans in whatever way we can.”

The car show was a feast for the eyes, featuring everything from antique vehicles dating back to the early 1900s to classic muscle cars and modern imports. “Last year, we marketed it more as an antique show, but this year we broadened it to include all types of cars,” said Kirby. “We had imports, muscle cars, Mustangs, trucks, Corvettes, really something for everyone.”

To ensure everyone had a fair shot at recognition, 16 awards were handed out, covering different eras and styles of cars. “We did categories by time frames; antiques from 1900 to 1950, then 1951 to 1960, 1961 to 1970, and so on,” said Kirby. “We also had special categories like Mustang, import, truck, Corvette, and muscle car.”

One of the day’s top honors, the Commander’s Choice Award, went to a striking 1963 Ford Falcon Sprint chosen by VFW Commander Kirk Saboda. “It was the biggest award of the day,” said Kirby. “Commander Saboda made a great choice.”

Despite forecasts of poor weather in the afternoon, the event enjoyed a festive atmosphere with live music and a range of food trucks to keep the crowds fueled and entertained. The Yardley Historical Association also participated, adding a local historical touch with their own award presentation.

“It was an amazing group of people and an amazing group of cars,” Kirby said. “Even with the weather, we had a great turnout and heard only positive feedback from the community, so it was a successful event.”

For many attendees, the show was more than a chance to admire shiny chrome and gleaming paint jobs; it was a chance to connect with others and support a vital cause. “People come from all over,” Kirby noted. “It’s open to everyone. We just want everyone to have a good time and feel welcome.”

The event was made possible thanks to the generosity of sponsors, including PrimoHoagies in Langhorne, TreeTrails in Trevose, and Wawa Corporate. “We’re very thankful for the support from our sponsors,” Kirby said. “They help make it all possible.”

Looking to the future, Kirby said next year’s show promises to be even bigger and better. “Next year will not only be our 10th annual car show, but also the 250th anniversary of our nation’s Independence Day,” he said. “We’re hoping to schedule the car show a little closer to July 4th and come up with something new to create an even bigger turnout. We’re still in the planning stages, but it’s exciting.”

For car enthusiasts who can’t wait for next year’s show, the VFW Post 6393 is already working on their next event; the Jeep Wrangler Fest, typically held in August or September. “Stay tuned for updates,” Kirby added. “You can check out our upcoming events on our Facebook page.”

Kirby also noted, "We're always looking for creative ideas, volunteers, and sponsors. Those interested can contact the car show committee via email at carshow@yardleyvfw.org".