Annual Car Show Brings Enthusiasts Together in Batavia

The Batavia Moose Lodge held its fourth annual car show on Saturday, drawing crowds just outside downtown Batavia. Car enthusiasts from various locations joined the gathering to admire vintage and modern vehicles. Among the early attendees were Lily Sullivan from Carol Stream and her boyfriend, Preston Bernatek of Batavia, who explored a variety of cars parked at the lodge situated at 1535 S. Batavia Ave.

“I had an ND Miata, a daily commuter car, but my insurance considers it a race car,” Sullivan said. “I attend about half a dozen car shows each year, attracted by the opportunity for people to showcase their vehicles and engage in conversations about shared interests.”

The event started bright and early on Saturday morning, attended by car owners, families, and avid auto enthusiasts. Moose member Marty Hamilton from Elburn shared, “Car shows are a great way to attract people along with fundraising. They enable community interaction and enjoyment.”

Activities at the show included giveaways, prizes, food, and drinks, all in support of the Mooseheart Kids Christmas Fund. Participants paid a $15 entry fee in advance or $20 on the day of the event. Alissa Roy of St. Charles, the event organizer, explained that the fundraiser is aimed at supporting children without homes during Christmas.

“We bring Santa to our lodge, purchase gifts for the children, and provide necessities for each home,” Roy stated. Over the past three years, the event has raised approximately $25,000. On average, around 120 cars, displaying various makes, models, and years, participate each year.

Roy highlighted the variety of vehicles, mentioning new Teslas, Ferraris, and interesting old models. The concept of a car show fundraiser originated from Roy’s fiancé, a car mechanic who enjoys attending car shows with his family.

“It’s just fun,” Roy reflected. “We offer raffle baskets with donations from local businesses, gift cards, and a large 50/50 raffle, which is always popular.” The car shows typically attract roughly 1,000 attendees.

John Bonner from Plainfield showcased his bright green 2007 Bentley at the fundraiser. “I bought it like this and would choose the same color again,” Bonner shared. “It attracts attention, like a green highlighter on the road.”

Bernatek’s interest in cars started with a neighbor who introduced him to the hobby. “I’ve been fascinated by cars since childhood, influenced by video games we played together,” he recollected. “In high school, a friend had a Camaro, and we enjoyed driving around. Eventually, I acquired a Corvette and began attending car shows with him.”

David Sharos contributed as a freelance reporter for The Beacon-News.