Live bands added to Cruise Nights at Craftworks

Popular event combines classic cars with fundraising

After two years of COVID-caused cancellations, Cruise Nights at Craftworks at the Barn in Selwyn Township, presented by Fowlers Corners and District Lions Club, are returning later this month — with a post-pandemic twist.

Beginning May 19, car enthusiasts and spectators will be welcomed back to the Craftworks grounds, located at 124 Lindsay Rd., one kilometre east of Fowlers Corners, to continue the years-old tradition.

Each Thursday from May 19 to Sept. 15, Cruise Nights will roll in starting at 5 p.m. — wrapping up at dusk — and guests can expect the usual: owners of antique, classic or simply unique cars will gather to show off their prized vehicles and socialize.

But this year, organizers are introducing something new to the popular event, which first launched seven years ago.

“We’ve added a completely different element to Cruise Nights and that’s live music,” said Larry Franks, chair of the Fowlers Corners and District Lions Club’s cruise night committee.

“In other years, we’d have a special night in July where we’d have a band. This year we’ve phased it a bit and rather than having a band one night, we’re going to have a band every Thursday in June, July and August.”

Guests can expect a variety of genres, he said, including country, rock ‘n’ roll and an array of staples from the 1950s up to the 1980s.

“These are all local bands, so people will come out, bring their lawn chairs and listen to some really good music,” Franks said.

The overall goal and “primary purpose” of Cruise Night, Franks said, is to raise money for local causes and community-based charities and organizations.

All proceeds of a 50/50 draw will go toward supporting Five Counties Children’s Center, Hospice Peterborough, BGC Kawarthas — Boys and Girls Clubs of Kawartha Lakes, Camp Maple Leaf and Camp Kirk, according to Franks.

There is no admission fee, but donations are encouraged.

Franks said the return of Cruise Nights is a welcomed dose of normalcy after facing lockdowns and isolation brought on by the pandemic.

“The public hasn’t had the opportunity to participate in these events for two years now. It’s a chance to have a community event where people can come out and have a good time.”

Masking is a personal choice, but organizers recommend guests wear masks and physically distance themselves while on-site.

These are all loc al bands, so people will come out, bring their lawn chairs and listen to some really good music.

LARRY FRANKS FOWLERS CORNERS AND DISTRICT LIONS CLUB’S CRUISE NIGHT COMMITTEE CHAIR