Chevrolet has announced that it will be the presenting sponsor for the 2011 Woodward Dream Cruise. Often called the world’s largest one-day car show, the annual event draws about 1.5 million car enthusiasts and up to 40,000 specialty cars, to Michigan’s Woodward Avenue.
Held on the third Saturday in August, this year’s Dream Cruise is the first in a three-year sponsorship agreement to help mark Chevrolet’s Centennial celebrations.
The hugely popular event was started by Mr. Nelson House, a Ferndale, MI, plumber who wanted to raise money for a children’s playground in the city. Mr. House passed away just before last year’s gathering, but he saw it grow from an idea into what has become a week-long automotive festival.
According to Greg Rassel, president of the Woodward Dream Cruise, “Chevrolet has always had a strong presence as part of the Woodward Dream Cruise, and we’re honored to have them become the presenting sponsor of the event.”
Among the special activities planned by Chevrolet are a display of historic Chevrolets owned and driven by fans, employees, and retirees, a showcase of current Chevrolet models as well as a chance to see product, including the ZL1 Camaro and the Sonic compact car. A separate display of performance vehicles and powertrains will be presented in Royal Oak, Michigan’s Memorial Park.
“The Woodward Dream Cruise is the ultimate grassroots automotive event,” said Rick Scheidt, vice president, Chevrolet marketing. “It is open to everyone. It’s free to attend. You can drive, or just watch. You can bring the family. It is a true celebration of automotive passion and performance, and we are pleased that Chevrolet can help make it possible.”
The 17th annual Woodward Dream Cruise is scheduled for Saturday, August 20, 2011.