Weekend car show in Charleston puts spotlight on accessible vehicles, but open to all

The Freedom Car Show is set for 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3 at Haddad Riverfront Park in Charleston.Photo byFreedom Car Show

CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- The Kanawha Valley is no stranger to car shows. But most don't put a spotlight on accessibility.

That’s where the Freedom Car Show comes in.

“Welcome to our inclusive car show, where innovation meets accessibility,” the event’s website reads.

On Saturday, Oct. 5, the second annual Freedom Car Show will roll into Haddad Riverfront Park in Charleston. Registration begins at 9 a.m., with the event scheduled to kick off at 11 a.m.

Saturday's car show will spotlight adaptable technologies used by individuals with disabilities, but all cars can participate in the event.Photo byFreedom Car Show

Like most other auto shows, the Freedom Car Show will feature a selection of classic and modern vehicles. But what makes this show a bit different is its emphasis on accessibility.

“At the Freedom Car Show, you'll discover a remarkable collection of vehicles that have been thoughtfully designed and adapted to meet the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities,” event organizers note on their website.

This weekend’s car show is sponsored by the West Virginia Statewide Independent Living Council (WVSILC). The nonprofit group works to advocate on behalf of individuals with special needs.

Visitors to Saturday’s event will have the opportunity to interact with exhibitors specializing in adaptable technologies. Many of the cars on display will include modified controls, specialized seating or state-of-the-art assistive technologies, organizers said.

“[The cars] have been thoughtfully designed and adapted to meet the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities,” event representatives note.

"Any car, truck or bike may enter the show and have a chance to win trophies and prizes," organizers of Saturday's Freedom Car Show said.Photo byFreedom Car Show

Organizers emphasize that you don’t have to have a disability or drive an adaptive car to participate in the show.

“All cars are welcome,” organizers note on the event’s website. “We are spotlighting cars that have adaptive modifications to bring awareness, but any car, truck or bike may enter the show and have a chance to win trophies and prizes.”

In addition to cars, trucks and bikes, Saturday’s show will also feature food, games and prizes. Live music from local bands will entertain guests from noon to 10 p.m. The lineup includes Acoustic Fusion, Amanda Smith and Relative Acoustically, Relative Obscurity and Five Star Rebellion. The event will also feature a Kid’s Zone, a gaming trailer, and a rock wall, among other activities.

“Whether you're a car enthusiast, a person with a disability, or simply someone who believes in the power of inclusivity, we invite you to join us on this journey of discovery and empowerment,” organizers said.

For more information or to register for the 2024 Freedom Car Show, visit freedomcarshow.org.

Michael Ramsburg is a Kanawha County communities reporter. He can be reached at ramsburgreports@gmail.com or by calling 304-370-3067.