The Fall Classic Car Show returns to Cherokee County History and Arts Museum grounds on Saturday, Sept. 18. Football season might be one of the first signs fall is on its way.

Car enthusiasts might have something to say about that, arguing summer does not truly end until the first vintage era vehicles take their final warm-weather cruises.

The season marks the end of a journey for them, finally able to get from under the hood of the classic machines and get behind the wheel for cruising along local thoroughfares and the opportunity to show off their vehicles at one of many car shows held at this time of year.

Pieces of history restored to mint condition, the vintage-era vehicles will fit in well Sept. 18 in the yard of the Cherokee History & Arts Museum, the main attraction of the annual Fall Classic Car Show. The event, which is hosted by the Cherokee Historical and Preservation Society (CHAPS), invites antique cars, trucks and motorcycles.

Johnny and Judy Blackwell's 1938 Cadillac LaSalle won "Best in Show"at the 2008 car show. It is typically one of the nonprofit group’s top fundraising projects each year.

“You always feel like you have to top yourself,” said Billy Pennington of the Cherokee Historical and Preservation Society, “but especially with the car show because it’s one of our bigger efforts; it’s something a lot of people look forward to each year.”

Cash prizes have been added to the traditional allotment of trophy awards for the show’s top five categories, which includes the Best in Show, first and second runner-up, Owner’s Choice, Poor Man’s Trophy and Spectator’s Choice awards. Independent guest judges will select recipients for Best in Show honors this year.

The Moses Wood Camp No. 125 of the Sons of Confederate Veterans will be selling barbecue plates during the event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for $6 each at the county History and Arts Museum headquarters on College Drive. Food items sold between that 2-hour span also include hot dogs, funnel cakes, smoothies and kettle corn.

A silent auction and door prizes are also on the slate of activities for the event. In addition, the blues band “Hoodoo Snake Doctors” will take the stage, providing entertainment for the showcase.

CHAPS is also welcoming those riding in golf carts to take part in the show. For those not interested in the array of classic cars on hand, the county History and Arts Museum will be open for regular business.

The car show will take place Sept. 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at museum, located at 301 College Drive, Gaffney. Admission to the event is $3 for adults and $1 for children under the age of 12.

To register a vehicle, log on to or call (864) 489-3988.

Advanced registration is $15 per vehicle, and $20 on the day of the show.