Stage set for Old Timers’ Day in Selbyville | Arts & Entertainment

The 68th Annual Old Timers’ Day Classic Car Show & Family Festival — one of Selbyville’s oldest and most treasured traditions — takes place this weekend. The event will be held on Church Street on Saturday, June 14, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The free-admission event promises a jam-packed day full of vintage cars, live entertainment, food and drinks, vendors from local businesses and a multitude of family-friendly activities, making it not only an event for locals but for visitors who are looking for something to do during Father’s Day weekend.

The festivities kick off at 8 a.m. as classic cars dating back to the 1910s line Church Street, bringing eventgoers on a trip back in time through multiple rows of vintage vehicles. They can expect to get a close look at vehicles up to 115 years old, such as Model T Fords, or marvel at the impeccable paint jobs crafted by their beloved owners.

Lauren Weaver, executive director of the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce and event organizer, spoke about the importance of the event: “The partnership with the Town is important, and it’s a great event to take part in as a community, as many companies around the surrounding areas come together to make this event happen.”

To keep things flowing smoothly among more than 100 classic cars, Weaver saw a need for an updated registration process this year — as, in previous years, the cars, due to their age, had trouble running for hours on end in the summer heat.

“We adopted a much-needed revised plan for the cars this year,” said Weaver. “All vehicles will be staged at the Southern Delaware School of the Arts, where traffic police and volunteers will help with the procession once the event officially starts, ensuring a smooth, overheating-free experience.”

Car enthusiasts can enjoy the friendly competition, with judging occurring from 10 a.m. to noon by experts from sources including Advance Auto Parts and associates at Atlantic Automotive. Awards in categories such as Best Overall Winner, Oldest of the Old Timers and Top 25 are up for grabs, with the announcement ceremony of the winners starting at 2 p.m. at the Main Event Tent.

While vintage cars may steal the show, the event offers much more for the community to enjoy. Weaver highlighted new additions including a Food Lion-sponsored watermelon-eating contest, a roller-skating rink, firetruck rides, a community book sale and a local small-business poker run. Families can dive into inflatables, games, face painting and roller skating starting at 10 a.m.

The festival won’t leave people hungry, with a wide array of food trucks from around the area providing local specialties and classic fair food. Banks Wines & Spirits will be sponsoring a beer garden, from which proceeds will go to the Selbyville Volunteer Fire Company.

Adding to the community spirit, the festival will include entertainment and live music; from a DJ to local live bands, such as The Glass Onion Band, who will take the stage from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Weaver shared her admiration for the band: “As long as I’ve been part of this event, Glass Onion has performed, drawing out their usual dancing crew,” ensuring a lively atmosphere, she said.

Parking will be located near Next Step Learning Center, on lots and side streets, and handicapped parking will be located on Main Street. Golf cart shuttles will be trailing along Church Street starting at 9 a.m. to bring eventgoers straight to the festival.

For details or to register a vehicle, email [email protected].

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