Revving Up Unity: Santa Monica Classic Car Show Shines a Spotlight on Culture and Community

The iconic Santa Monica Pier played host to the Pico Youth & Family Center's (PYFC) 3rd Annual Santa Monica Classic Car Show on Saturday, September 9, 2023. Enthusiasts of classic cars, motorcycles, and community members gathered to revel in the timeless charm of vintage automobiles while supporting a noble cause.
On Saturday, the Santa Monica Pier transformed into a paradise for automotive aficionados as PYFC proudly presented its annual classic car show. This much-anticipated event drew a diverse crowd, all united by a shared love for classic automobiles and a commitment to making a difference in the community.
In a remarkable display of solidarity, more than 3,000 attendees flocked to the Santa Monica Pier, turning it into a bustling hub of excitement and nostalgia. The event was a testament to the enduring appeal of classic cars, with enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds coming together to celebrate these automotive treasures.
One of the remarkable aspects of this event was its accessibility. The organizers made it clear that this day was for everyone, and as such, entry for spectators on foot was entirely free. This inclusive approach ensured that families, friends, and neighbors could all partake in the festivities without any barriers.
The show featured over 200 classic cars and hot rods, representing a wide spectrum of makes and models. Some of these automotive gems dated back to the 1920s, providing a vivid glimpse into the rich history and craftsmanship of the automobile industry. It was a true journey through time as visitors marveled at the meticulously preserved and restored vehicles.
Beyond the impressive array of cars, the event boasted a lineup of live entertainment that kept spirits high throughout the day. @HouseOfVibe took the stage as the headlining act, accompanied by special guest DJs and captivating performances by Ballet Folklórico showcasing traditional dances. Meanwhile, Rustys and various vendors served delectable food and offered unique items for sale, ensuring that there was something for everyone to enjoy.
However, this classic car show was about more than just admiring vintage vehicles and enjoying entertainment. It carried a profound message of unity and cultural preservation. Against the backdrop of ongoing gentrification, which had displaced many low-income residents, particularly from Latino and African American communities in the Westside of Los Angeles, this event served as a beacon of hope and awareness.
Santa Monica City Councilman Oscar de la Torre, in a heartfelt statement, emphasized the event's significance: "At a time when low-income residents of all backgrounds are being pushed out of Westside communities due to gentrification, we felt that unity, awareness, and visibility were needed more than ever. This car show was necessary to celebrate our region's cultural diversity that is at risk of extinction."
The 3rd Annual Santa Monica Classic Car Show was not merely an event but a powerful symbol of community strength and cultural resilience. On September 9th, 2023, the Santa Monica Pier became a gathering place for classic car enthusiasts and community advocates alike, all joining hands to make a positive impact on the lives of underserved youth in the area.
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Fabian Lewkowicz is an award winning Santa Monica-based professional photojournalist and press photographer, and the creator of the photo blog, Santa Monica Close Up. With years of experience as a staff photographer for several media outlets including the Santa Monica Daily Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica Observer, and the Santa Monica Corsair, Fabian has captured some of the most iconic moments of Santa Monica.
Fabian's photographs have been exhibited in a variety of settings, including museums, art galleries, hospitals, department stores, banks, fire stations, police stations, commercial buildings, amusement parks, offices, and homes. His photography captures the essence of Santa Monica, from its beautiful landscapes and stunning sunsets to its unique culture and diverse community.
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TAGS: Photojournalism, Photojournalist, Documentary, Cinema Verite, Fly-on-the-wall, Observational Photography, Press Photography
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[@todd8109]

The watermark in the middle makes it not enjoyable to see the cars