See thousands of custom and classic cars at KKOA Leadsled in Salina this week

The largest custom car show in the United States is back in central Kansas this week as the 44th annual Kustom Kemps of America Leadsled Spectacular descends on downtown Salina.

More than 2,000 entrants were in last year's event that takes place each July, featuring show cars, trucks, drag machines, bicycles, vendors, bands and more over four days in and around Oakdale Park.

This year's event takes place Thursday through Sunday, July 25-28, with KKOA announcing special guests, including actress Candy Clark, best known for portraying Debbie Dunham in the classic 1973 car film "American Graffiti," which earned her an Academy Award nomination for best supporting actress.

What is the schedule for this year's Leadsled Spectacular?

While custom, hot rod and other cars have already started arriving in Salina, the spectacular officially begins at 7:30 p.m. Thursday with the Sundown Cruise on Santa Fe Avenue.

This fan-favorite cruise will see event vehicle entries gather at Oakdale Park before heading for a leisurely drive down Santa Fe, where thousands gather on the sidewalk to wave at and see these custom cars.

The car show itself begins each morning at 9 a.m. Friday through Sunday in Oakdale Park, where entrants will be parked for the Show and Shine throughout the park.

In addition to seeing custom cars, trucks and other vehicles, visitors to the spectacular can expect food and other vendors, swappers, bands, pedal cars, vintage bicycles, a treasure hunt and more.

Featured guest Clark will also be in the park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day for photos and to sign autographs.

Run What'ya Brung Drag Races and Elvis night also on agenda

After the show Friday, from 5 p.m. to dusk, will be the Run What'ya Brung Drag Races at the south end of Berkley Family Recreational Area. This popular event will see registered entries from the show race a 1/8-mile drag against whatever vehicle rolls up next to it.

Finally, Elvis night is back Saturday, but at a new venue this year, with "Young Elvis" performer Trent Smith doing a tribute to the King of Rock and Roll at 8 p.m. Saturday at the Temple, 336 S. Santa Fe Ave.

Tickets to the performance are $25 and can be purchased ahead of time at the Temple or at Cozy Inn or on the night of the show, when doors open at 7 p.m.

This article originally appeared on Salina Journal: See thousands of custom and classic cars at KKOA Leadsled in Salina this week