After the entire community spent so much time apart, Harley-Davidson of Valparaiso couldn’t wait to invite the community to their first US 30 Cruise-In of the summer on Friday. With about 500 cars, a couple thousand people, and beautiful weather, the evening was a huge success and a true foreshadow to the summer weekends yet to come.
Harley-Davidson has a full calendar set for the remainder of the summer as these Cruise-Ins will be hosted weekly on Fridays. Any and all community members are welcome to attend and cherish good company, listen to live music, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and share in their passions for polished bikes, hot rods, painted cars, and vintage rides.
Long-time attendee Robert Ramirez reflected on his personal transition from simply a regular supporter and lover of the Cruise-Ins’ entertainment to now a volunteer.
“I have been here since it started. Since 2009, I’ve been one of the regulars,” said Ramirez. “I came here as a spectator and now I am here as a volunteer, helping them out with whatever they need. It’s a good time, there is nothing like this anywhere around us. Everybody looks forward to this every summer.”
James Swearington and his son Corbin were also in attendance on Friday night, together enjoying the crowd of friendly neighbors and the classic cars and hot rides that filled the parking lot.
“Family and everyone being together, being social here, is a lot of fun,” said James. “Slow-moving traffic with the cars also helps to make it safe.”
Swearington’s son Corbin added to the sentiments, mentioning how he and his dad have been working on a vintage ride themselves.
“I like to see all the cars with the special paint jobs,” said Corbin. “We’re working on a car right now - a Buick ‘68 Gran Sport.”
Along with the dealership, Grieger’s Motor Sales and Copper Custom Armament were the main supporters of the Cruise-Ins and were happy to see people in attendance enjoying each other’s company, the positive environment, and of course, the music. Additional sponsors for this summer’s Cruise-Ins include Valpo Muffler & Auto Service, View Outdoor Advertising, Boyd Asphalt, Inc., M & S Collision Center, Inc., Babilla Roofing, Valpo Trailer, Inc., ZRODZ & Custom, LLC, Fitzpatrick Face and Body, Ozinga, and Digital Graphic Solutions.
This week’s performers on stage featured Ernie Givens and White Lies, a popular country music band of five that has been playing together since 1999.
In addition to music, attendees were also able to enjoy food and drinks provided by Suzie’s Cafe & Catering and Leroy’s, respectively.
Not only is this summer extra special because of our community’s return to in-person events following isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it’s also Harley-Davidson’s first summer using these Cruise-In gatherings as fundraising for charity. Donations will be requested, not required, at the events, allowing the dealership to donate the proceeds that are gathered to different charities throughout the summer.
These Cruise-Ins will continue every Friday night from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 pm. until September 4, 2021. Be sure to follow Harley-Davidson of Valparaiso’s Facebook page here to stay updated on their event details like what bands will be playing live each week.
For more information about Harley-Davidson of Valparaiso, visit www.hdvalpo.com.
