GRANTS, N.M. – This year’s third annual Spokes on 66 Car Show event was nothing short of a success, attracting an impressive turnout of attendees, vendors, and a diverse selection of food trucks. “Oh, it’s been amazing,” Grants MainStreet Director Chase Taylor said. “We’ve had an awesome turnout… We’re ready to build it even bigger and better next year.”
The primary goal of this event was to ensure that attendees left with smiles on their faces and excitement for next year’s gathering. “I hope that everybody that came leaves happy and excited for next year,” Taylor continued. “Our goal is to make this bigger and better each and every year.”
Among the highlights of this year’s gathering were the treasure hunt and the Nostalgia Drive, both of which received enthusiastic responses. On the first day of the two-day event, held on June 5, approximately 75 treasure hunters embarked on a quest to locate six different locations. The ultimate prize for the winning hunter was $500. “They want us to do it more often, more frequently,” Taylor added.
The weather also played a crucial role in the event’s success, with perfect conditions for gathering. “The weather couldn’t have been any better,” Taylor explained. “It was a little windy, a little cloudy last night, but I think it was perfect because it cooled down the weather during a hot spell of ours.”
Engaging activities, such as the People’s Choice Award for cars, have proven to be popular among attendees. Regarding the most popular event, Chase Taylor said, “I think really anything that just gets people involved. You know, we’re doing a People’s Choice Award where the adults can come and decide which… they like the best. And then, for the kids as well, that’s always a good turnout.”
Despite the success of the event, some challenges were noted, particularly concerning parking availability. It was said that it was difficult to find parking for everyone, “there’s not a lot of parking within the community up close, something that we’re aware of. And we’re working on, but it’s out of our control at this point,” Taylor added.
The organization of the event received high praise, thanks to collaborative efforts from sponsors and volunteers. “Everyone’s been so awesome,” Taylor said. “From our sponsors to the Grant’s Main Street project board, our volunteers. You know, it’s a very big event that requires a lot of help. We ask for help, and people come.”
Growth has been evident since the launch of the event, which began with just 20 cars in its inaugural year, 150 for its second, and has expanded to 220 cars this year. Taylor admitted, “It’s far exceeded what we… expected.”
Safety was a priority for this Spokes on 66 event, with local law enforcement from the Cibola County Sheriff’s Office patrolling the area both in uniform and in civilian clothes. “So, we’re really fortunate to partner with the local law enforcement, and they are roaming throughout the park to ensure everyone’s safety,” Taylor confirmed.
Chase Taylor encourages staying connected for future updates regarding Spokes on 66 through GrantsMainStreetproject. com or spokeson66.com, ensuring that the excitement will carry on throughout the year until the next gathering.