The semiannual Festus Mayor’s car cruises remain popular, at least partly because they bring back pleasant memories of when teens cruised up and down Main Street on the weekends, said Barb Lowry, the city’s recreation and tourism director.
“I think it’s something people remember from when they were kids,” Lowry said. “It brings in all generations of people. I’m in my 50s, and I remember cruising, and my mom, who is not in her 50s, remembers cruising. It’s a great, fun time.”
Local residents will have the chance to relive those days on Saturday when the Mayor’s Summer Cruise will be held. The event actually begins with an informal car show at 2 p.m. on the Festus Public Library parking lot, 400 W. Main St. Then, the cruise officially kicks off at 6 p.m.
It’s free to take part in the cruise and the car show or to watch the festivities.
Lowry said it is difficult to estimate how many people take part in the cruises and how many spectators line up along Main Street sidewalks to watch the vehicles, but added that the event draws large crowds to downtown Festus, weather permitting.
“I just know it’s packed,” she said.
In the past, city leaders have said hundreds of vehicles and thousands of people participate in the cruises.
Along with the cruise and the car show, the event includes other activities at the library.
“Two food trucks – Kanoa’s Hawaiian Grill and Hangry Hut – will be on the parking lot 2-8 p.m.,” she said. “We’ll also have a DJ.
“We want everyone to come and have a good time.”
Former Festus Mayor Mike Cage started a one-day cruising festival in October 2010 as a way of reintroducing the activity to Festus Main Street. Later, the summer cruise was added.
For more information about the Mayor’s Summer Cruise or other city events, visit festusmo.gov and click “Around Town.”
The Festus Tourism Commission awarded a $4,050 grant to Lowry to help fund the Mayor’s Summer Cruise.
The Mayor’s Fall Cruise is scheduled for Sept. 21.