Downtown Ithaca traveled back in time Saturday morning as a lineup of vintage cars rolled down State Street to stake their place for the second annual “Classic Cruisers” car show.
The show, put on by the The History Center in Tompkins County in collaboration with Downtown Ithaca Alliance, took over the 100 block of West State Street, which neighbors the Ithaca Commons, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“Classic Cruisers” was intended to be a one-time only event, according to Ben Sandberg, executive director of the history center and DIA board member. However, at its inaugural show in 2025, it was so well-received that the center decided to bring it back for a second showing.
People came to take photos, strike up conversations with owners and enjoy a sunny day in downtown Ithaca.
The owners told personal stories about their vehicle to any passerby interested, young and old alike. “If your car has decades on it, or just decades of stories, it fits,” the website read.
The cars spanned across decades, some dating as far back as the 1920s, including a Model A Ford from the Sullivan Trail Model A Ford Club and a Jaguar from the 1950s toting the license plate “1M 82.”
Many cars had their hood open for viewers to take a look inside and appreciate the hard work put into maintaining the vehicles. Owners took pride in their machines and were enthusiastic to share about their upgrades, whether it be installing wood panels or a new air intake.
Each car was adorned with unique details and customized accessories showcasing the owners’ individual aesthetic tastes.
Sandberg expressed hope that the show would turn into an annual tradition if it continued to receive good turnout. Unlike larger events put on by the DIA, he praised the unique, “intimate” atmosphere of the show.
“The opportunity for people to share stories is really exciting,” he said.
The Downtown Ithaca Alliance events calendar details all upcoming events throughout Ithaca’s downtown area.
Everett Chambala is a member of the Class of 2027 in the School of Industrial and Labor Relations. He is an assistant news editor for the 144th Editorial Board and can be reached at echambala@cornellsun.com.
Kate Turk is a member of the Class of 2027 in the College of Arts and Sciences. She is the assistant managing editor of the 144th board and was an assistant news editor for the 143rd Editorial Board. She can be reached at kturk@cornellsun.com.
