For Tucson's many car enthusiasts, their rides are more than just a way to get from Point A to Point B. They are a link to the past and a source of pride.
They provide countless hours of entertainment, mechanical challenges and are social tools used to connect with others.
Car lovers can be found throughout Southern Arizona, particularly in the fall when the heat of summer fades and car shows begin to pop up all over.
"There are a lot of good people at these shows," said Gerry Snell, a retired construction worker whose cherry-red 1967 Ford Fairlane makes regular appearances at many of Tucson's most popular car gatherings.
"They love to talk about their cars. I'm no different. I do too."
Whether you drive a Mini Cooper or a Model T, a car show exists for you in Tucson.
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2012 Tucson Fall car-show Highlights
Vietnam Veterans Car Show
• What: Presented by Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 106 and Chuy's, this show benefits the 25th annual Nam Jam concert at Reid Park on Oct. 20.
• No. of cars expected: 80-100.
• When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday.
• Where: The parking lot adjacent to Chuy's Mesquite Broiler, 7101 E. 22nd St.
• Spectator admission: Free. Donations accepted.
•More: 240-6890
Tucson Classics Car Show
• What: The Rotary Club of Tucson is the host of one of the largest shows in Southern Arizona.
• No. of cars expected: 400.
• When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 13.
• Where: St. Gregory College Preparatory School, 3231 N. Craycroft Road.
• Spectator admission: $5 with discounts available.
• More: 440-4503.
PGX Car Show
• What: Annual car event raises money for high schools in the Amphitheater School District.
• No. of cars expected: 400.
• Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 20.
• Where: Canyon Del Oro High School, 25 W. Calle Concordia.
• Spectator admission: $5 with discounts available.
• More: 297-4310.
Little Anthony's Car Shows
• What: Little Anthony's Diner hosts frequent shows in the restaurant's parking lot.
• No. of cars expected: 80-100
• When: next, 7-10 p.m. Oct. 27.
• Where: Little Anthony's Diner, 7010 E. Broadway.
• Spectator admission: Free.
• More: 296-0456.
Sixth Annual Cops & Rodders Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show
• What: Presented by the Tucson Police Foundation, which benefits the Tucson Police Department.
• No. of cars expected: 600.
• When: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 3.
• Where: Hi Corbett Field at Reid Park, 3400 E. Camino Campestre.
• Spectator admission: Free.
• More: 207-2878.
Thanksgiving Rollin' Cruise
• What: Money raised goes toward the Tucson Community Food Bank of Three Points.
• No. of cars expected: More than 50.
• When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 10 .
• Where: Cindy Lou's II, 15270 W. Ajo Hwy.
• Spectator admission: Free
• More: 406-3009.
15th Annual All Buick, Cadillac, Pontiac and GMC Show
• What: Southern Arizona Chapter of the Buick Club of America presents this show.
• No. of cars expected: 100.
• When: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 10.
• Where: Royal Buick-Cadillac-GMC, 815 W. Auto Mall Drive.
• Spectator admission: Free.
• Info: 465-2539.
