The Automotive Extravaganza at Hershey: AACA Eastern Region Fall Meet

Nov 15, 2024 at 11:30 AM
Single Slide
Here, we present our fourth captivating gallery from the remarkable car show held at Hershey. Thanks to the dedicated Joe Grippo who was on-site, capturing every moment. If you happened to miss any of the other car show, swap meet, or auction photos, simply click on the link below to explore them all. Joe has been a regular at this show for countless years, and it remains one of his absolute favorites. It's also a favorite of ours as he generously shares numerous photos with our readers, and we are truly grateful. We still have a plethora of galleries to share, so make sure to check them out and don't forget to click on the thumbnail photos to enlarge them and then scroll through the slide show.

An Unforgettable Automotive Celebration

The AACA Eastern Region Fall Meet, which has been taking place annually since the 1950s in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a weeklong extravaganza dedicated to the automobile. It spans from the very beginning until 25 years from the current day. Every day from dawn to dusk, from Tuesday to Thursday, an incredibly massive swap meet and car corral unfolds. And every night, there is an outrageously stacked Sotheby's auction. It's a wall-to-wall experience filled with automotive history! 1: The atmosphere during this week is electric. The swap meet is a treasure trove of automotive parts, memorabilia, and unique finds. Car enthusiasts from all over flock to this event, eager to discover hidden gems and connect with like-minded individuals. The car corral showcases a diverse range of vehicles, from classic beauties to rare specimens. 2: The Sotheby's auction adds an extra layer of excitement. It's a chance to bid on some of the most coveted automobiles in the world. The bidding wars and the anticipation in the air make for an unforgettable experience.When Friday arrives, the swap meet packs up and makes way for the car show. The show field behind the AACA Library and Research Center is a sight to behold. With a huge variety of classes, there is truly something for everyone.

Preservation Class: Unrestored Beauty

Unrestored or minimally restored survivor cars and trucks in the Preservation Class are some of the most fascinating vehicles to explore. Talking to the owners and hearing their stories about how grandma's 1966 Tempest only accumulated 18,000 miles is truly captivating. It gives a glimpse into a bygone era and the care that these vehicles have received over the years. 1: These cars are a testament to the craftsmanship and durability of the past. They represent a time when cars were built to last, and every scratch and dent tells a story. 2: The attention to detail in these unrestored vehicles is remarkable. It's a reminder of the importance of preserving automotive history.Another class that leaves a lasting impression is the Sports Car Class.

Sports Car Class: Speed and Style

The Sports Car Class showcases a collection of perfect Lamborghini Miuras, gorgeous Jaguars and Healey's, and a Lotus Cortina that is sure to make your jaw drop. 1: These sports cars are a celebration of speed and style. The sleek designs and powerful engines make them a sight to behold. 2: Driving or even just looking at these cars brings back memories of the golden age of sports cars. They represent the pinnacle of automotive engineering and design.Vintage Race Cars also play a significant role at the AACA. 1: On Thursday, at the old Hershey Stadium, the AACA hosts race car conditioning runs. It's a thrilling sight to see the vintage Sprint Cars, sports cars, and even the occasional drag car take to the track. The crowd goes wild with excitement. 2: These race cars are a testament to the passion and dedication of the drivers and owners. They represent the spirit of competition and the love for speed.Judging at the AACA show is a meticulous process. Teams of judges and marque experts roam the show with clipboards and judging sheets, carefully scrutinizing each entrant. 1: This isn't just a first, second, or third-place show. The owners are vying for AACA level award badges, which add significant value to the vehicle's pedigree. 2: The attention to detail and the expertise of the judges make the judging process fair and rigorous. It ensures that only the best of the best receive the highest honors.After experiencing the AACA Hershey week, one is left with a blown mind, physically exhausted but with a wealth of automotive knowledge. 1: It's an event that truly immerses you in the world of automobiles and leaves a lasting impression. 2: Whether you're a car aficionado or just someone with a love for history, this event is not to be missed.For more information, check out: https://hershey.aaca.com/national-aaca/ and https://aaca.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/AACA_2024_Judging_Guidelines.pdf.CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE OF OUR PHOTOS FROM HERSHEY!