GEORGE NEWS - The George Old Car Show has firmly established itself as South Africa's largest and most iconic vintage car event. Now in its 28th year, the show continues to grow in scale and significance, drawing car enthusiasts and visitors from across the country and beyond.
Speaking at the media launch for the 2025 show, Dr Waldo Scribante, chairperson of the Southern Cape Old Motor Club, reflected on the monumental success of the 2024 show.
"I can confidently say that the George Old Car Show is now the biggest show in the country. The show previously considered number one only sold 5 500 tickets at their last event," said Scribante.
The 2024 show sold 13 000 tickets this year.
MMC for Planning and Development Marlene Barnard said this is one of two events in George that the municipality considers to be 'wow' due to the massive influx of people coming to George.
Barnard encouraged those planning to attend the 2025 show to book their accommodation as early as possible to avoid having to stay out of town.
She said the event contributes massively to the local economy, not just for the vendors at the event, but also service organisations supplying the vendors.
"Following the 2024 show, R200 000 was donated to charities and that is another 'wow' for us and it's fantastic for the municipality to be involved and help sponsor. I wish you all the best for next year because it is big," said Barnard.
Adapting for the future
Recognising the changing dynamics of modern events, the organising committee has decided to streamline the show. "Times have changed, with social media making everything faster and more instant.
From 2025, the George Old Car Show will be a one-day event, taking place on Saturday 8 February," Scribante announced.
While many events focus on growing larger, the George Old Car Show prioritises creating a memorable experience. "We don't try to always go bigger and better," said committee chairperson Alewijn Dippenaar. "Instead, we aim to make the show more special - something that people can truly enjoy."
A record-breaking 2024 event
The 2024 show featured an impressive line-up of 1 110 registered vehicles, making it a record-breaking year. Highlights included the oldest car in South Africa, nine Mercedes-Benz 300SLs, 39 veteran and vintage motorcars, and 56 vintage motorbikes.
The display was further enriched by six vehicles flown in from Canada and one from Namibia.
Scribante also noted the significant local participation, with 70% of the vehicles coming from the Western Cape, including 267 from George alone.
Other towns like Cape Town, Mossel Bay, and Knysna were also well represented.
The event wasn't just about vintage cars. Forty tractors and stationary engines were on display, and the popular model car exhibit attracted significant attention.
Ten local car dealerships also joined the festivities for the first time, along with a record number of stall exhibitors.
At the media launch of the 2025 George Old Car Show are, from left: show committee chairperson Alewijn Dippenaar, show media liaison Mimi Finestone, MMC for Planning and Development Marlene Barnard, George Municipality tourism manager Joan Shaw, chairperson of Southern Cape Mercedes club Rene Scribante and chairperson of the Southern Cape Old Motor Club Dr Waldo Scribante. Photo: Jacques du Toit
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