Overview
February 28: Anatomy of a Car Show — What It Takes to Host a Successful Event. Presenter: Jim Gress
What: Many car enthusiasts attend car shows and cruise nights on a nearly weekly basis, weather permitting of course. Attendees spend time cleaning and detailing their beautiful vehicles in hopes that their labor of love is recognized with an award. But what does it take to put together a car show? What is involved and what is required and how is this planning and attention to detail done? What obstacles occur and how are they addressed to make a show a rewarding and successful experience?
The Story of a Car Show: With humor, experience and a wonderful detailed review of how this is all done, from beginning to end, Jim Gress and his “Classics & Cruisers on Hamilton” steering committee will proudly present what he so interestingly titled “The Anatomy of a Car Show” which will be a fulfilling and surprising presentation not to be missed.
Who: Your presenter is car connoisseur Jim Gress of Bethlehem, PA. Jim is a 39 police veteran who currently holds the rank of Assistant Chief of Police with the City of Allentown Police Department.
Many of Jim’s favorite memories come from cruising the Allentown circuit night after night throughout the 1970s and 80s. In 2017, inspired by the revitalization of Center City Allentown and his role at the time, he envisioned bringing back the cruising culture and camaraderie he cherished—this time in an organized, community‑focused way. That idea became Classics & Cruisers on Hamilton.
From its inaugural event in 2018 to the 8th annual show planned for 2026, it has grown into one of the largest and most enjoyable events in the Lehigh Valley.