Folks from near and far are revved up about the 25th annual La Conner Classic Boat & Car Show.

While not all roads lead to La Conner, there are more than enough to support the fleet of restored vintage cars, trucks, and trailered boats expected to roll into town Aug. 2 for what is always a much-anticipated event.

One of the community’s most popular summer traditions, the Classic Boat & Car Show — which offers free admission — regularly draws more than 100 entries to the Port of Skagit’s La Conner Marina. This year should be no exception, said La Conner Chamber of Commerce Director Mark Hulst.

“We already have 50 cars pre-registered,” Hulst said, “and two-thirds of our entries usually come in on the day of the event.”

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La Conner Classic Boat & Car Show

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That’s not all. 

Hulst said they have nine boats participating and he expects a few more might arrive.

“One of the great things about this show is that just about every decade and era is represented,” Hulst said.

The show features raffle prizes and giveaways along with presentations of coveted “People’s Choice” Awards and the downtown “Cruise-In” serpentine.

“One of the great things about this show is just about every decade and era is represented.”

Mark Hulst
La Conner Chamber of Commerce Director

Hulst noted that the local celebration of timeless designs and craftsmanship brings together auto and watercraft aficionados from throughout the Pacific Northwest.

“We get cars from Seattle, British Columbia, and last year we had one from Anchorage, Alaska,” Hulst said.

This year’s program again features local favorites, including Bob Ferari of Shelter Bay, known for “Team Ferari,” who has already pre-registered for the 2025 show.

Local sponsors play a big part, too.

“There’s a lot of excitement about this,” Hulst said. “We get a lot of local business support for this event.”

Among the show’s silver anniversary sponsors is the RETRO DINER, whose thematic ambiance pays homage to Detroit’s golden age — when the Midwest city’s rise as an industrial powerhouse and major cultural center was fueled by the growth of the auto industry.

Co-owner Kimberly Howell said RETRO DINER enjoys any event that brings back the good old days when life was simpler and service was better. “Our thought is, vintage cars need vintage food.”

That nostalgic theme carries over to the rest of the event, with local vendors adding their own classic touches. Hulst said the La Conner Retirement Inn will offer a pancake breakfast until 10 a.m., La Conner Rotary and Kiwanis will serve burgers and hot dogs, and Skagit Bay Search & Rescue will be on hand.

In addition, the Town of La Conner will have an informational table at the show as part of its ongoing public participation program. Mayor Marna Hanneman will join Town Planner Ajah Eills at the table.

“La Conner will be showing off,” said Hanneman, who is a big fan of the show.

Hulst agreed.

“It should be a good day for La Conner as a whole.”

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 Bill Reynolds is a general assignment reporter who covers Town government, schools, and spot news.