Coeur d’Alene’s classic car weekend returns this June for three days of classic fun By Taylor Shillam | Photo by Coeur d'Alene Downtown Association
This June, the Coeur d’Alene Downtown Association invites car enthusiasts to “jump back in time” as the Car d’Lane classic car weekend returns! From June 16 through 18, guests will have the chance to experience the largest classic car cruise in North Idaho, take an up-close look at one-of-a-kind cars, and enjoy a weekend of family friendly classic fun.
The Car d’Lane weekend will begin with a Sunset Spin the evening of Thursday, June 16. The experience will allow guests to take their cars along a scenic cruise featuring views of the lake, Coeur d’Alene River, and 4th of July Pass. The night’s destination will be the oldest restaurant in Idaho, the Snake Pit, known for its excellent barbecue offerings and location rich with Silver Valley history.
Another unique experience offered Thursday evening, the Speakeasy Fundraiser for Arts and Culture, hosted by the Museum of North Idaho and Coeur d’Alene Arts, will present a prohibition-themed evening of specialty cocktails, live music and gambling—a perfect spot for a nightcap before Friday’s main cruise.
The Friday of Car d’Lane weekend will involve two car cruises, beginning with Tour d’Lane taking the streets from 10am to 2pm for a new, exclusive cruise event.
“With pit stops at Classic Garage Automobile Restoration to check out restoration processes and a new state-of-the-art quick boat launch facility at Hagadone Marine, your appetite will thank you when you stop by the new brewery in town for a barbecue lunch,” according to the Coeur d’Alene Downtown Association.
Then, the highly anticipated classic cruise will take place Friday night through the streets of downtown Coeur d’Alene. “Spectators will feel the rumbling engines, see roaring flames, and hear the beeping of old-style horns as the cars parade through the downtown corridor.” The cruise will begin with westward travel from Lakeside on Eighth Street.
Saturday, June 18, will close out the weekend with a selection of unique events and spectating opportunities, including a Poker Walk across downtown businesses, a Pinup Contest, and the Show & Shine, which offers an up-close look at the weekend's unique classic cars as they line Sherman Avenue.
Specialized sections of the show will offer additional perspectives on the realm of classic cars. This year, Special Interest Lane will offer a look at a limited number of specialized, unique vehicles crafted in 1981 or later. There, new race cars and high-performance cars will be the highlight.
Builders aged 25 and younger will have their place to shine during Saturday’s show at the Young Builders Alley, showcasing cars and automotive projects competing for the Young Builder Award.
The weekend will culminate in an Awards Ceremony Saturday afternoon. Trophies will go to the Best of Classics in each decade dating from the 1930 through 1980s, with additional categories including Best Muscle Car, Best “Old School” Hot Rod, American Sports Car, Slickest Paint, and more.
Car d’Lane is free for all spectators. For any age and any level of classic car expertise, Car d'Lane is guaranteed to provide an exciting and unique weekend of fun! The full schedule of events will be provided by the Coeur d’Alene Downtown Association on social media and at CdADowntown.com.