NOTE: “Today” and “tonight” refer to Friday, July 11.
PORT ANGELES — It’s time to cruise in to the “best car show on the Peninsula.”
Hundreds of pre-1984 classic custom cars and hot rods will converge on the Ruddell Auto Mall in east Port Angeles today for the annual Ruddell Cruise-In.
Part car show, part community block party, the 18th annual event will take place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the dealership at 110 Golf Course Road.
Live music, featuring a return of the popular Kaing Brothers Rock & Roll Band, will begin at 5:30 p.m.
Admission is free.
Howie Ruddell, owner and general manager of the dealership, predicted a record turnout based on feedback he’s received from other car enthusiasts and the warm and sunny weather forecast.
The Cruise-In draws show cars from around Washington state, Oregon, British Columbia, Idaho and beyond.
“It’s the best car show on the Peninsula,” Ruddell said.
“It’s the biggest and the best. You can see cars here Friday night that you won’t see at any other car show around.”
Lineup at 3 p.m.
Classic cars and hot rods will begin showing up on the 5-acre lot at 3 p.m.
“If somebody who lives here locally has a hot rod, they can bring it in,” Ruddell said.
“All you need to do is show up. Bring your car, come on in, and you can register here.”
Since show space is limited to about 400 spots, only completed pre-1984 classics and hot rods are eligible for the show.
“We do run out of space,” Ruddell said.
Members of the Port Angeles Fire Department will brave a dunk tank. The Knights of Columbus service organization will offer food at a nominal charge.
The Ruddell Cruise-In once again will tie in with an Old Timers Northwest Car Club of Bremerton tour.
The Old Timers club will return to the Ruddell Auto Mall for a Saturday show.
About 20 Ruddell Auto Mall employees are assisting with the Cruise-In.
“Everybody who works here No. 1, loves people, and No. 2, loves cars,” Ruddell said.
“At end of the day, people here take a lot of pride in being able to host it and be a part of it.”
________
Reporter Rob Ollikainen can be reached at 360-452-2345, ext. 5072, or at rollikainen@peninsuladailynews.com.
