Hundreds of vehicles heading to Carleton's Cruisin' for a Cause

CARLETON — A bigger and hopefully drier Cruisin' for a Cause is set for Saturday in downtown Carleton.

Offerings include a classic car show, vehicle parade, fireworks, at least 33 vendors, food and live music. The annual cruise is a fundraiser with a different benefactor each year. This time, proceeds will help the Carleton Beautification Committee purchase new Christmas lights.

Last year’s cruise was marred by inclement weather.

"We are hoping this one is better than last year," Darlene Fante said. "Last year, we had to move the event to the next day due to inclement weather, which affected attendance somewhat. But we still had a great turnout. It gets bigger every year."

Fante and Lena Kaczmarek are among the event's organizers.

Hundreds expected at car show, parade

“We expect an increase in (car show) attendance,” Fante said. “Last year we had hundreds of cars in attendance, with many participating in the parade.”

Car show registration begins at 9 a.m. in front of Grafton Tavern, 12615 Grafton Road. The registration fee is $5, which includes a dash plaque. Vehicles can be classic and muscle cars, pickup trucks, rat rods and special interest vehicles. Cash prizes and gift cards will be awarded.

The car parade begins at 1 p.m. Cars will line-up behind Grafton Tavern at 12:30 p.m. The Airport High School marching band will again participate in the parade.

"The parade is huge with all the cars, bands and so many of our community in it," Fante said.

Lobster, lemonade among food choices

Food options will include Cousins Maine Lobster of Detroit; Nicki G's Smoked Barbeque; 3,2,1 Lemonade; Good Humor's ice cream truck; and foods from local businesses.

A concession stand also will be open at Ash Carleton Park, 12899 Horan St.

More vendors this year

"Last year, we had 25 vendors, and this year we have received applications for at least 33 vendors, with more expected this week," Fante said.

Vendors will have displays on Mill Street, off Monroe Street.

Music, swamp meet, fireworks planned

A swap meet will run from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

A disc jockey will play classic oldies music at Carleton Hotel Bar, 927 Monroe St.

Entertainment will begin at 6 p.m. at Ash Carleton Park's pavilion. First up is the Rockin' Boomers band at 6 p.m. Cruise Control will perform at 7 p.m. Music will last until 9 p.m.

Fireworks will begin at dusk at Ash Carleton Park. The concession stand will be open. Gardens of Carleton Senior Living and Dynamic Construction will provide the food at the concession stand at the park.

Other offerings

Children's activities will include Fun Foam, a clown and face painting.

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Event T-shirts will be sold. Games with prizes will be offered.

Fante is pleased with support for this year's Cruisin' for a Cause.

"Every year we pick a fundraiser and work hard to get sponsors. This year we are overwhelmed by how many businesses came forward," she said.

The rain date is Sunday. To learn more, visit Facebook or email lenak.tct@gmail.com.

— Contact reporter Suzanne Nolan Wisler at swisler@monroenews.com .

This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Hundreds of vehicles heading to Carleton's Cruisin' for a Cause