Kars on King returns to the streets of downtown Oshawa Friday

The annual kick-off to Autofest Nationals happens Friday when hundreds of classic cars line Oshawa’s downtown streets for Kars on King.

The event, which runs from 3:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. and is sponsored by Atria Developments, is free to the public and will also feature live entertainment on the main stage at the city’s four corners (King Street and Simcoe Street), Batman and the Batmobile, children’s entertainers, crafts, animal acts and more at nearby Memorial Park, strolling buskers and, of course, classic cars of every description (1991 or older) on display on the closed-off streets.

“We are excited to welcome thousands of visitors from across Oshawa, the GTA’s most dynamic tech-driven community, and Canada’s historic car capital for our annual ‘Kars on King’ festival,” enthused Oshawa Councillor Tito-Dante Marimpietri, who chairs the city’s Economic and Development Services Committee.

The annual Touch a Truck Event is also back at the Tribute Communities Centre from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. This free, hands-on (literally) event allows children of all ages to get up close and personal with more than 40 vehicles. There will also be interactive displays and the opportunity to learn about the vehicles from the drivers.

“After last year’s largest turnout yet, we can’t wait to see what is in store for this year’s Touch-a-Truck event,” said William Balfour, Assistant General Manager and Director of Marketing & Sales for Tribute Centre operator OVG360. “We continue to be blown away by the ongoing support of community partners that fuel this event year after year.”

Just down the street from the festivities and across the street from Memorial Park is the Canadian Automotive Museum, which will be offering free admission (donations are accepted) from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Lightning McQueen of ‘Cars’ fame on display at the Canadian Automotive Museum

The museum is home to the most significant collection of Canadian automotive history in the world, from the Fossmobile (Canada’s first automobile) and McLaughlin Buicks of Colonel Sam to Disney Pixar’s Lightning McQueen and contemporary classics.

Oshawa Tourism will also have a booth at Kars on King to help visitors and residents alike discover the city’s hidden gems.

“Make the most of the last weeks of summer by joining in the festivities of Kars on King in downtown Oshawa,” said Mayor Dan Carter. “This event promises to be family-friendly and filled with exciting entertainment and stunning classic cars. You don’t want to miss it!”