Residents of Yuma gathered for the annual Cool January Classic Car Show, held at the Carefree Village Resort. The event brought together enthusiasts from across the country to celebrate automotive history and community spirit.

Experience the Thrill of Vintage Cars and Generous Philanthropy

A Community Celebration Through Wheels

The annual Cool January Classic Car Show in Yuma transformed the city into a vibrant hub of automotive passion. At 10:30 a.m., the “Village Cruise” Parade kicked off, weaving through the streets with gleaming classics that turned heads. By 11:00 a.m., the main event commenced at the Carefree Village Resort (CVR), where visitors marveled at an array of meticulously restored vehicles. Rusty Knapp, CVR’s Activities Director, highlighted the significance of this gathering. "This event fosters connections among people who share a love for classic cars," he explained. "It’s not just about the vehicles; it’s about bringing communities together during a time when we can all enjoy something special."The atmosphere was electric as attendees admired the craftsmanship of these vintage machines. Many had traveled from distant states like Oregon and Idaho, adding a touch of national flavor to the local festivities. For those who live in Yuma year-round, this event offered a chance to reconnect with old friends and forge new bonds over shared interests. It was clear that the car show served as more than just a display of mechanical artistry—it was a celebration of community and camaraderie.

Stars Align for Judging Excellence

Adding glamour to the occasion were celebrity judges from KYMA—Melissa Zaremba, Jalen Fong, and Scott Gross—who took on the challenging yet rewarding task of selecting winners. The judging process was rigorous, focusing on various aspects such as originality, restoration quality, and overall presentation. Awards like Best Eyes and Best Shoes added a whimsical twist, encouraging creativity and humor among participants. These categories underscored the lighthearted spirit of the event while recognizing unique contributions to the show.As the afternoon progressed, anticipation built around the announcement of winners. Each award represented not only a recognition of excellence but also a nod to the hard work and dedication invested by owners in preserving their beloved cars. The presence of media personalities lent additional prestige to the awards, making them even more memorable for both winners and spectators alike.

Beyond the Show: A Night Honoring Tina Turner

While the car show concluded at 2:00 p.m., the day’s entertainment extended well into the evening. That night, the Carefree Village Resort hosted a tribute to music legend Tina Turner, featuring Avis Ellis. This concert provided another avenue for guests to enjoy high-quality performances and further enriched the cultural landscape of the event. Attendees appreciated the seamless transition from automotive admiration to musical homage, highlighting the resort’s commitment to offering diverse experiences.Proceeds from the car show went to support the American Cancer Society, underscoring the charitable dimension of the event. Participants and organizers alike felt proud knowing that their enthusiasm for classic cars could translate into meaningful contributions toward a noble cause. The combination of community engagement, automotive heritage, and philanthropy made the Cool January Classic Car Show a standout event in Yuma’s calendar.