News Release

Classic Car and Music Festival at Big Spring on June 9

Old car crossing the Jacks Fork River.

News Release Date: June 1, 2018

Contact: Cathy Runge, 573-323-4806

Contact: Dena Matteson, 573-323-4814

Van Buren, MO: Join us on Saturday, June 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., as we celebrate a part of our American Heritage through the exposition of classic automobiles. The first Classic Car and Music Festival will be held at Big Spring. Many of the vehicles that will be on display symbolize those that once traversed the rugged hills surrounding Ozark National Scenic Riverways when Big Spring State Park was a popular destination for auto tourism. 

Vintage automobiles tell a story of a simpler time and of simpler pleasures. A time steeped in family bonds, renewed sense of discovery and the independent American spirit. In the 1920s, the mass production of automobiles, combined with improved roadways, provided greater access for urban residents to venture into the Ozarks seeking respite from the city. These developments diminished the isolation of the Current River basin more than ever before. They also contributed to the establishment of Missouri’s first state parks at Big Spring, Alley Spring and Round Spring. 

Car registration is free and will take place the morning of the event. All classic vehicles manufactured through 1964 are invited to participate.  Numerous awards will be presented including: Dash plaques to the first 50 entries, People’s Choice, Longest Distance, Club with the Most Entries, Historical Dress, Car Camping Display and 1st, 2nd, and 3rd overall. 

When you come spend the day with us, you can bask in the beauty of Big Spring, walk among classic vehicles, all while listening to Missouri’s finest bluegrass bands. The Punch Family, Local Connection and The Baker Family will present bluegrass music throughout the day.  Bar-B-Que and homemade ice cream will be available for purchase at the event, along with fun activities for kids and free vintage car rides from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.   
  
The event is free and all are welcome. Big Spring is located four miles south of Van Buren, Missouri, on State Route 103. For more information call 573-323-4236, visit the park’s Facebook page, or website at www.nps.gov/ozar.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways preserves the free-flowing Current and Jacks Fork Rivers, the surrounding natural resources, and the unique cultural heritage of the Ozark people.  

 

-NPS-
 

About the National Park Service. More than 20,000 National Park Service employees who care for America’s 417 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities.