Today we’d like to introduce you to Minnesota Street Rod Association Back To The Fifties Weekend.
Hi Minnesota Street Rod Association, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Introduction to the MSRA Back to the Fifties Weekend
The MSRA Back to the Fifties Weekend has a rich history that began in June 1974, when Gene Sonnen and his friends gathered at a drive-in restaurant in downtown Saint Paul to showcase their street rods and customs.
Over the years, this small gathering has evolved into one of the nation’s largest car shows, attracting more than 10,000 vehicles to the more than 320 acre Minnesota State Fairgrounds for the weekend-long celebration.
Highlights of the 51st Event
• Cars and Participation: More than 10,000 cars, all from 1964 or older, will come from nearly every state and Canada.
* The event is supported by 2,000 volunteers who cover over 4,000 shifts during the three-day weekend.
• Ladies Showcase: An air-conditioned building that hosts vendors, classes, speakers, and entertainment specifically for women.
• Kids World: Offers rides and activities for kids.
• Pedal Tractor Pull: Kids ages 4 to 11, can compete in a free kid’s pedal tractor pull that delights “drivers” and audiences alike.
• Craft Fair: Features more than 80 vendors selling handmade goods, crafts, collectibles and much more.
• Model Car Contest: Hundreds of kids can participate in a free, on-site activity to build a model car, while enthusiasts bring their models and compete for Best in Class.
• Vendors and Food: More than 200 vendors offer a huge variety of goods and services, and numerous Fair ground restaurants provide classic fair food.
• Music and Community: The event provides free outdoor concerts on Friday and Saturday nights, and a Sunday morning church service.
• Swap Meet: A massive swap meet takes place early Sunday morning, offering antiques, auto parts, and more.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Weather is always a factor in Minnesota no matter what time of year it is. The unpredictable nature can create a few headaches for guests, organizers, volunteers, and car owners. Whether it’s rain, hail, wind, or scorching temperatures causing chaos outside, there’s still plenty to see and do indoors at the Back to the Fifties.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
We’re proud to say this event has become a family affair. You’ll see multiple generations of car owners showcasing their rides at the fairgrounds, some that have been with us since the very beginning half a century ago, and are now enjoying the event with their youngest loved ones.
What’s next?
This year marks the 51st MSRA Back to the Fifties Weekend, and one of the special highlights will be the gathering of special guests who are participants in The Great Race on Friday afternoon on the south side of the Midway.
The 2025 Great Race participants will start on Saturday morning from the Main State Fair gates on Snelling Avenue, and the participating drivers will embark on their nine-day journey to the finish line in Irmo, South Carolina,
The Great Race covers more than 2,300 miles across Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, with hosted stops in 17 cities.
Pricing:
- Adults: $15 at the gate, and kids 15 and under are free with each paid adult
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.msrabacktothe50s.com
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/back.to.the.50s
