Pumpkin Run 2008
Take a drive through Ohio on the first weekend of October every year. You’ll notice subtle hints of fall creeping in. The leaves our changing, the temperature is dropping, and street rods are all heading in one direction. A red 1969 Corvette with chrome side pipes roars past while you try to get a quick look. As you get closer to Clermont County the restaurant and hotel parking lots are filled with bright colors of the classic street machines. From Michigan to Tennessee the hotrods leave their homes to make that drive up 275 to highway 32 east. Anyone from the Midwest with the love of a v8 has been there. They plan their days off for the Friday to get their early to enjoy the sights and sounds of the cruisers all weekend. The sleepy town of Owensville Ohio comes alive for three days each year to host the annual Pumpkin Run Nationals.
Just east of Cincinnati, the Clermont County Fairgrounds become the destination for the hot rod enthusiasts from all around. The Pumpkin Run Nationals has become a major event for the year and continues to grow in popularity year after year. This year will mark the 33rd anniversary of the Pumpkin Run Nationals. The show is hosted by the Fastiques Rod and Customs car club. The Fastiques has it all covered from lodging options to church services on Sunday morning.
You won’t find any sport tuned civics with gull wing doors in this car show. From the beginning of the automobile to the year 1970, all makes our welcome. The fairground has become a field of dreams for the car lovers that show up over three thousand strong. Meet up with old friends or make new ones as you admire each others fine automobiles. Although the show is only open to pre-1970, you will find a wide variety of classic cars at the Pumpkin Run. If you’re looking for the frame off restoration, you’ll find it here. If you’re looking for the work in progress, then you’ll find it here. Bring your money and buy your next project to keep you busy all winter.
Oct, 3rd 4th and 5th, will be the show dates this year. On Thursday evening the registration opens. The first weekend of October is perfect cruising weather. The temperature is just right to have the windows down and listen to the sounds of the street rods heading east. For more information on registration and events, visit www.pumpkinrunnationals.com.
William S. Stephens
