The Twilight Cruisers are preparing to roll into the holiday season with their 25th Annual Toys for Kids Cruise-In, set for Saturday, December 6, at the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing on State Road 484 in Belleview. The long-running event raises donations for Interfaith Charity and continues to be one of the area’s most anticipated seasonal gatherings. A rain date is scheduled for December 7.
Car owners can pre-register for $15 or sign up the day of the show for $20. Participant registration runs from 8 a.m. to noon, with the option to bring a new toy equal in value to the fee. Spectators and parking remain free, though donations are welcome.
This year’s event will feature 40 People’s Choice trophies, 15 judged trophies, a Best of Show award, the Don Garlits Trophy and a giant gift bag. The first 125 registrants will receive dash plaques, and attendees will have a chance at over $1,500 in giveaways, a giant Christmas stocking and a large ladies’ gift bag. Last year’s 50/50 drawing awarded the winner more than $500.
A variety of specialty vehicles are scheduled to appear, including the Marion County Sheriff’s Office helicopter and display unit, a Hot Wheels Corvette, the Dukes of Hazzard Charger, a Gull Wing, the Mayberry police car, Lightning McQueen, Tow Mater and a 9-foot-tall Bumblebee from Transformers, among others.
National Parts Depot and O’Reilly Auto Parts serve as this year’s prime sponsors.
For more information or to pre-register, residents can visit TwilightCruisersFlorida.com or contact event organizers Frank (215-266-6803), Steve (352-347-4496), or Johnny (352-552-1699). The Cruise-In remains one of Belleview’s most spirited traditions, blending classic cars, community giving and holiday cheer into one festive weekend.
