Loris prepares for fifth annual Small Town Big Show Car Show

By Ruben Lowman

The streets of downtown Loris are set to transform into a vibrant gallery of automotive history and modern muscle as the fifth annual Small Town Big Show Car Show arrives on Saturday, April 18.

Running from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. this event has rapidly ascended the ranks of local traditions, now standing as the second-most attended gathering in the area behind only the famed Loris Bog-Off.

Since its inception in 2022, when it tripled its expected turnout with over 140 entries, the show has consistently drawn crowds of around 5,000 people, according to organizers.

This year the city is anticipated to have another strong turnout as the event moves away from the holiday conflicts that slightly hampered participation in the previous year.

Main Street and Meeting Street, along with Railroad Avenue, will be closed to traffic as early as 9 a.m. to accommodate a diverse array of classic and antique cars, trucks and motorcycles.

And while the primary draw remains the meticulously buffed and shiny vehicles on display, the afternoon offers a full festival atmosphere for families and enthusiasts alike.

Music will be provided throughout the day by local DJ Banana Jack Murphy and attendees can choose from three different food trucks, alongside a variety of local vendors.

The competition is expected to be fierce across 31 different classes with high stakes on the line for participants.

A $500 prize and a large trophy await the winner of the Best in Show award while the top motorcycle will earn a $250 prize.

Other honors include the mayor’s choice award, sponsor awards and a special recognition for the participant who travels the furthest distance to reach the small town showcase.

Spectators can attend the event free of charge, though participants are encouraged to register in advance for a $25 fee to compete for the various trophies and prize packs.

For the downtown businesses and restaurants of Loris the influx of thousands of visitors provides a substantial seasonal boost. Many local establishments plan to remain open throughout the day to serve the crowds as they wander between the rows of vintage steel and chrome.

Should the spring weather cooperate the combination of local businesses and hot rods promises to make this one of the most successful showings of the classic event to date.