Annual Car Show in Batavia Supports Mooseheart Kids

The Batavia Moose Lodge hosted its fourth annual car show on Saturday just outside downtown Batavia. The event attracted a crowd, featuring an array of vintage and modern cars at the lodge located at 1535 S. Batavia Ave. Enthusiasts like Lily Sullivan from Carol Stream and her boyfriend Preston Bernatek from Batavia were among the early attendees, eager to view the diverse collection of cars.

Sullivan shared her experience owning an ND Miata, classified as a race car by her insurance. A regular at car shows, she appreciates the opportunity to connect with others who share a passion for cars. The event saw participation from car owners, families, and auto enthusiasts, all gathered to enjoy a sunny day filled with automotive excitement.

Organized by Moose member Marty Hamilton from Elburn, the car show served as a fundraiser for the Mooseheart Kids Christmas Fund. Hamilton highlighted the event’s success in attracting attendees and raising money, praising its ability to foster community engagement. The show featured giveaways, prizes, food, and beverages, with participants paying a $15 advance entry fee or $20 on the day.

The fundraiser focused on supporting kids without Christmas plans. “They come over to our lodge, and we bring Santa in, buy them their Christmas presents,” said event organizer Alissa Roy from St. Charles. “We provide gifts for each home, addressing specific needs like coffeemakers or rugs.”

In previous years, the car show raised about $25,000 and showcased approximately 120 cars annually, ranging from brand-new Teslas and Ferraris to classic vehicles. Roy attributed the car show’s inception to her fiancé, a car mechanic, whose enthusiasm for cars inspired the event. A highlight of the car show were raffle baskets donated by local businesses, offering gift cards and a popular 50/50 raffle.

The event drew an estimated 1,000 attendees, including John Bonner from Plainfield, who displayed his bright green 2007 Bentley. Bonner’s eye-catching car attracted attention, likened to a green highlighter cruising the roads.

Bernatek shared how his interest in cars grew, spurred by a neighbor and childhood experiences with car-centric video games. Inspired by a high school friend’s Camaro, he eventually acquired a Corvette and began frequenting car shows.