Triangle Arts and Entertainment

New Attractions and Format for 2012

The Third Annual Carolina Classics at the Capital Car Show in Downtown Raleigh will feature a new format and new attractions, including appearances by the stars of truTV’s “Lizard Lick Towing” and assembly demonstrations of a Model T Ford.

From Aug. 17 through Aug. 19, attendees will be able to see hundreds of classic cars and vendors inside the Raleigh Convention Center and outside in a special cordoned-off area on the street. On Saturday, Aug. 18, the Lizard Lick Krew will be signing autographs, taking pictures with fans, and offering a wide array of branded merchandise for purchase.

Also on Saturday, members of the Triangle Chapter of the Antique Automobile Club of America will be demonstrating how to assemble a take-apart Model T Ford. This particular vehicle was produced in 1917 as a five-passenger touring car, then later converted into a pickup truck and finally a two-passenger roadster. Assembly time can vary from six to 12 minutes depending on the number of workers and the cooperation of the Model T. Upon completion of the assembly, the “shop boss” will hand crank the car and it will be driven several feet to prove it can run.

The show will also feature hundreds of vintage and classic cars and trucks competing for awards in specific categories as well as the coveted Sir Walter Cup for Best in Show. This year’s event includes rare and priceless collection vehicles never before shown to the public.

Last year’s event drew an estimated 40,000 people to Downtown Raleigh. A new format for 2012 includes admission to view all vehicles, vendors and exhibits for just $10, $5 for children under 12, and free for children under six.

“For the past two years, it almost seemed like we were running two separate car shows inside the Convention Center and outside,” said Greg Cox, one of the event’s organizers. “This year, you can see everything – inside and outside – for one low price.”

Operating hours for the 2012 Carolina Classics at the Capital are as follows:

Friday, Aug. 17, 4 p.m to 10 p.m.

• Sneak Peak admission for just $5.
• Friday Night Cruise-In on Fayetteville Street, 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Free admission for classic car participants.

Saturday, Aug. 18, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Appearance by the Lizard Lick Krew, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Model T Assembly Demonstrations, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• Car Judging, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday, Aug. 19, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Awards Ceremony, 1 p.m.

This event will also feature live music and radio station broadcasts by 94.7 WQDR, Radio 96.1 and Pulse 102. The primary sponsor for 2012 is Miller Lite.

Classics at the Capital is proud to have as its charity partner the Foundation of Hope for Research and Treatment of Mental Illness.

For more information about the Carolina Classics at the Capital, visit www.classicsatthecapital.com or call (919) 896-7448. Additional information can be found on the Classic’s Facebook page or by following @capitalclassics on Twitter.