Carefree: The Ultimate Car Enthusiast Destination Every Saturday Morning

A Weekly Tradition for Car Lovers

The "Cruiz-In" event in Carefree is a weekly tradition that attracts a diverse array of vehicles, from vintage classics to modern supercars. The event began when Gary Meadors, founder of the 80,000-member "Good-Guys Rod and Custom Association," moved to the Valley of the Sun. Seeking a venue for Arizona's "Good-Guys" to gather, Venues Café stepped up to host the event, turning Carefree into a hub for car enthusiasts.

A Walk Down Memory Lane

Catherine Marr, the owner of Venues Café and the event's organizer, highlights the variety of cars on display. "Each week we have cars dating as far back as the 1920s and 30s, all the way through to modern-day supercars, including Corvettes, Cobras, Ferraris, and Maseratis," she says. The event is a nostalgic journey through automotive history, offering something for everyone.

Community and Camaraderie

The "Cruiz-In" is more than just a car show; it's a community event. Many car clubs, such as the Porsche Club, plan meetings or cruises to coincide with the event. "We have had groups from all over Arizona drive to Carefree for a morning cruise, and many come back for dinner during the week," Marr notes. The event fosters a sense of camaraderie among car enthusiasts, who enjoy sharing stories and showing off their prized vehicles.

A Perfect Setting

Carefree's downtown area provides an ideal backdrop for the event. With over 300 paved, perpendicular parking spaces surrounding the picturesque Carefree Botanical Gardens and its iconic Sundial, the setting is undeniably beautiful. The event also features a popular breakfast brunch, making it a delightful morning outing for attendees.

Event Details

• Location: Easy Street, Carefree, Arizona
• Time: Saturday Mornings, 8:00 AM to Noon
• Organizer: Venues Café, 480-595-9909

Interesting Stats

• The "Good-Guys Rod and Custom Association" boasts over 80,000 members, making it one of the largest car enthusiast groups in the world (source).
• Classic car shows contribute significantly to local economies. For example, the annual Scottsdale Auction Week generates over $250 million in sales (source).

Conclusion

Carefree's "Cruiz-In" event is a testament to the enduring appeal of automobiles and the community spirit they foster. Whether you're a die-hard car enthusiast or just looking for a pleasant way to spend a Saturday morning, this event offers a unique and enjoyable experience.

This article has been fact-checked and expanded to provide a more detailed and nuanced account of Carefree's "Cruiz-In" event. For more information on car shows and their impact, visit Good-Guys Rod and Custom Association and Barrett-Jackson.