“Cars and Coffee” is one of the monthly events to attend. It takes place at Hawkeye Downs out on the track. It starts around eight in the morning and ends mid-afternoon on either the second or third Sunday of the month. The coffee is sold by a local coffee truck and includes multiple delicious combinations. There are also other opportunities similar to this that might happen later in the day.
With events like this, there is variety in not only cars but people as well. Lucas Horak, senior, said, “It’s pretty fun meeting new people and being able to see the cars.” The range of people can vary tremendously, anywhere from a kid walking with their parents drinking hot cocoa or water, a young adult showing off the recent details of their car, to older people chatting and sipping away with new friends. Even if someone doesn’t happen to be into cars like some, “Cars and Coffee” is a great social event.
This event in particular has multiple returners, which makes it perfect if one doesn’t know where to start. Ken Lusk, participant, said, “There are always new cars and people there, so just getting to see that and learn about their car [is fun].” Both Horak and Lusk said “Cars and Coffee” is amazing for newer people, as it offers the ability to make great connections with veterans.
In the summer, the opportunities are almost limitless, from cruising First Avenue to car shows, drag races, or drift shows. Summer car events are super fun and highly liked by multiple people, seeing as they get people out and socializing. Don’t know where to find out about more occasions like this? Horak said that the majority can be found on Facebook, or sometimes they might be handing out flyers for newer events.
Whether one is the Einstein of cars, or just getting into them, the car community is very accepting and such a thrill. Horak and Lusk have both been involved with cars for a couple of years and always find pleasure in meeting new people, as well as seeing new vehicles. Horak said that the “older muscle cars” are his favorite to see, and for Lusk, it’s any car, mostly the ones self-built. Horak’s family has been involved for generations, while Lusk has been self-introduced into the community. Lusk has a close to self-built Impala ‘64 which has been in a couple of shows itself.
The best part about events like these is that everyone goes and supports one another, creating bonds and connections everywhere. Just get out there and try something new. It’s guaranteed one will find the people and interests that will support them.
