A Classic Tradition Rolls Through White Lake
Every summer, the towns of Montague and Whitehall come alive with roaring engines and shiny chrome. Cruz’in is a classic car parade and show that started years ago and quickly became a favorite event. Local residents and visitors gather to admire rows of cars, mostly built before 1986. Over time, the event grew larger, attracting car fans from across Michigan.
Challenges Shift the Event in 2024
However, the summer of 2024 brought a big change. City officials decided to cancel the parade after drivers began doing burnouts, creating safety risks. Instead of cruising through both towns, the event became a parked car show in downtown Montague. Even though the format changed, hundreds of classic cars still lined the streets, and families still came to enjoy music, food, and fun.
A Fresh Start with New Leadership
In 2025, a new group of local car lovers took charge and brought the parade back. Starting at 6:00 p.m. on July 25, cars began their cruise from Whitehall to Montague once again. To solve past problems, organizers added a designated burnout lane and a small $10 entry fee for drivers. With these changes, the event stayed fun but also became safer and better organized.
A Community Classic with a Future
Today, Cruz’in continues as a proud tradition that brings the White Lake area together. Families, vendors, and vintage car lovers all gather to celebrate summer in style. Organizers now look ahead to even more improvements, including expanded routes and more food trucks. With its fresh energy and deep roots, Cruz’in is ready to roll for many summers to come.
