Expo Rock N Rods Rocks On
On Saturday July 9th, the third annual Expo Rock N Rods took place at the Ormstown Fair Grounds. Despite intermittent thundershowers, enthusiasts gathered to showcase and admire antique and modified cars, trucks, motorcycles, and vintage tractors.
Although the weather had attendance down from last year’s 450 exhibitors and 2000 spectators, a lineup of surf, rockabilly, and classic rock bands played on through rain showers, keeping spirits high. The Dwayne Dixon Band, featuring Dr. Groove, even inspired some dancing in the downpour.
Expo organizer Dan Gruer wasn’t deterred by the weather, since Rock N Rods is quickly becoming one of the most popular shows in Quebec. “We have a really good bunch to have so many come out and brave the rain,” he says. “We had 86 vehicles for the event. That’s better than many shows do on a nice day. Rain is just one of those factors every outdoor event has to contend with.”
Dedicated motorists will also travel far and wide to attend popular shows. One of the biggest challenges in organizing the event, Gruer explains, is trying not to compete with other exposition dates, even those relatively far away. There is a show happening in Moncton on the same day as Ormstown and he’s had several people ask him to switch his date in order to attend both. Another part of his mandate as organizer is to stay true to motor fanatics by not overly commercializing the event— keeping it about cool vehicles and good music.
Spectators of the show can expect to encounter an abundance of shiny chrome, whitewall tires, and the smell of oil and rubber in the air; as well as witness the pride exhibitors take in their vehicles. A number of kiosks, raffle giveaways, live bands, and food and beverage vendors can also be found on site. The show runs from 8am to approximately midnight and campsites are available for those who want to stay over. Expo Rock N Rods is slotted to return for its fourth year in 2017, hopefully under sunny skies, but as this year proved, fans can expect a show rain or shine.