Page 202 - South Mississippi Living - September, 2018

CRUISIN’ get your motor running
READY TO ROLL
story by Lynn Lofton photo courtesy of Cruisin’ The Coast
I t’s almost time for Cruisin’ the Coast,
America’s largest block party, set for
September 30 through October 7. This will
be the 22nd year for the annual event that pumps
millions of dollars into the local and state economy. In addition to thousands of classic and antique cars cruising around, Cruisin’ features activities such as cruise-ins, entertainment, swap meets, auto auctions and more.
As of August 1, there were 5,100 online registrations, including visitors from 44 states and Canada. “We usually have registrations from 30 or 40 states, so we’re excited about this increase and that we’re continuing to grow,” Executive Director Woody Bailey said. “On-site registrations will begin on October 1 at Cruise Central, boosting the number even more, and we expect another great year.”
Only registered vehicles may drive into and park in the different venues, but spectators — who must park offsite — are welcome to visit the venues to see the cars and enjoy the entertainment. There is no admittance fee for the venues, but there is a fee to attend the swap meet.
With Highway 90 as the main focus of cruising, Bailey says the repaving project of
this federal highway will not hinder Cruisin’ events. “The contract for this work calls for the contractor
to take off the week of Cruisin’,” he said. “There may be some uneven spots in the pavement but all lanes will be open. I’m pleased that we won’t have any issues with it.”
New this year is the organization’s creation of the Cruisin’ Krewe to act as volunteers to supplement volunteers from the various auto clubs. “We’re soliciting Krewe members from the community,” Bailey said. “Krewe members will get to meet a lot of people and act as hospitality ambassadors for the area.”
Also new, Pascagoula is moving their Cruisin’ event to Beach Park and extending it to three days. “That’s been a popular venue and will be very good for them,” Bailey noted.
Cruise Central will be located at 200 Beach Boulevard in Gulfport (Centennial Plaza), with event locations spread across the Coast. The Swap Meet will be held at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum.
Cruisin’ the Coast
228.385.3847 www.cruisinthecoast.com
202 SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living • September 2018 FOR MORE REFLECTIONS OF THE GULF COAST >> www.smliving.net