MACUNGIE, Pa. — More than 1,500 hot rods, antique and classic cars are filling Memorial Park in Macungie for the 47th Wheels of Time, bringing car enthusiasts and families together.
“It’s part of American heritage… car culture started in America and spread throughout the world,” said Former Wheels of Time President Ken Martin.
Among this year’s attractions is a piece of Hollywood history: The car driven by Vin Diesel in the first Fast & Furious movie.
“There was the famous race at the end with the train tracks coming through and that’s pretty much its fame,” said John Sbrigato, who owns the car.
Fans also had the opportunity to meet actor Luis Da Silva, who played Diogo in the Fast & Furious franchise.
“Seeing everyone and their passion for their cars is what keeps our community thriving,” Da Silva said.
Steve Darnell of Vegas Rat Rods was also there to meet fans.
“Coming from Vegas, Southern California, where there’s a lot of custom cars. Lots of car culture over there; it’s unbelievable, but it’s a real eye-opener to sit on this side of the country because these guys are not a joke,” Darnell said.
Organizers say the event is about more than the cars. They describe the community as a family and a brotherhood.
“One of the participants has told me that this is a brotherhood. We do things together, we all get along,” Martin said.
Along with the cars, the three-day event features music, crafts and other activities aimed at making the show a family-friendly experience.
And the event also gives back to the community. Organizers say they have donated more than $1 million to charities throughout the Lehigh Valley over the years.