Countdown to Cars in the Park on August 4, 2024

The countdown to South Africa’s biggest classic car event is officially on. Mark your calendars for August 4, 2024, when the 42nd Cars in the Park will take Zwartkops Raceway by storm, and trust me, this year's event promises to be an absolute banger.

Frik Kraamwinkel, the mastermind behind this extravaganza : “We’re gearing up for an amazing show,” says Frik, beaming with the kind of pride usually reserved for a dad watching his kid's first unassisted wheelie. “We’ve got over 2,500 classic and special-interest vehicles lined up, and we’re expecting more than 10,000 visitors. It’s going to be lit!”

Hold on to your driving caps because this year’s star attraction is the 60th anniversary celebration of the Ford Mustang. Yes, the car that makes even the sound of a roaring engine feel like poetry. From the 1964 classic that started it all to the modern beasts, every Mustang worth its salt will be flaunting its stuff.

Not to be outdone, Porsche is rolling in with a full lineup of their iconic 911 series. And if you’ve ever wondered what 125 years of Fiat looks like, you’re in luck—these Italian stallions will be showing off everything from vintage beauties to the newest models.

For the aficionados of pre-WWII cars, Emil Kuschke is curating a special exhibit in the pit area. Imagine rows of stunning, rounded beauties from the 1930s and 1940s, all waiting for you to drool over. It’s like stepping into a time machine, but without the annoying flux capacitor issues.

And it’s not just about the cars. Over 100 car clubs will be there, showcasing rides from the 1920s to the modern era. Plus, everyday classic car owners get their time to shine too. If you've got a car that's more than 30 years old, bring it along! Your jalopy might just be the star of the show—no polishing necessary.

But wait, there's more! It’s not just a car show; it’s a family fun fest. There’ll be 140 stalls selling everything from model cars to tools, live music, kiddie entertainment, and enough food and drink to make even the hangriest petrolhead happy. And for a bit of added excitement, check out the rally stage on the Zwartkops karting circuit.

Gates open at 6 am for exhibitors, and 8:30 am for the general public. Get your tickets early from iTickets for R120 (kids under 12 get in free), or grab them at the gate for R140.

So polish up your classic, grab the kids, and get ready for a day of petrol-fueled fun. Visit the Pretoria Old Motor Club’s website or their Cars in the Park Facebook page for more info. See you there, gearheads!