Chrysler Nationals Saw a Record Breaking Year in 2015

CARLISLE, Pa. - July 16, 2015 - PRLog -- The Carlisle Chrysler Nationals are always one of the largest shows on the Carlisle Events season schedule and 2015 proved to be no different.  The event yielded a record turnout of over 2,500 cars registered, breaking the previous record, set just last year.  The combination of perfect weather all weekend, special guests and some pretty significant vehicle displays all contributed to making this another amazing show at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds.

The event officially started Friday morning (7/10), but Thursday played host to some pre-show activities. Gates opened at 7am Thursday for early bird shopping, and many vendors and patrons took advantage of this opportunity to buy, sell and trade all things automotive within the rapidly expanding swap meet.  Also taking place on Thursday was the tapping of an honorary Chrysler Nationals Keg at Market Cross Pub in downtown Carlisle, Chrysler Carburetor Kölsch.  Plus, for the first time in Carlisle Events history, a band was brought in to kick off event weekend. Two-time ACM Vocal Duo of the Year, Thompson Square performed at the fairgrounds Thursday evening in front of a packed standing room lot and grandstand.

As far as special guests go, Tom Wopat was the big name on the roster for event weekend. Wopat, also known as Luke Duke from the Dukes of Hazzard, signed autographs Friday-Sunday within Building T beside a film-accurate General Lee Charger.  Wopat’s autograph line stretched out the door and was lengthy for each of the scheduled five sessions.  Showgoers from around the world came to meet him and also to connect with other special guests onsite.  Those guests included the Ramchargers drag racing team, the Golden Commandos racing team, Herb McCandless and designer Virgil Exner, Jr.

The Forward Look Reunion was held within Building G throughout the weekend and featured cars spanning from 1955-1961, all of which were designed by Virgil Exner. The display housed cars within the building as well as outside, so passersby could also enjoy the beauty of these classic cars. Building T was home to the Shelby Reunion and the always popular general invitational display.  This was a big hit too, including a unique Super Bird barn find.  These displays were so popular that it was a rare moment that guests could walk through without a human traffic jam.

The unique AAR & T/A Reunion was held in Building Y and featured uncommon options and colors of the cars that were only built in the year 1970. The showfield also took part in a reunion display, as Dodge Neons filled a special tent dedicated to the 20 year anniversary of the vehicle.  Along with the swap meet and car corral, the Hellcat thrill rides hosted thousands over the course of the show.  Needless to say, plans are already underway for 2016 with showfield and hotel reservations made, plus a date has been set.  Mark your calendar, because next year’s show runs July 15-17.  A wide array of photos are available online too via the Carlisle Events Flickr Page.  Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com and click the social media icon to learn and see more!