Rat rods crept down High Street in Waynesburg. Adults and children alike participated in bubble gum blowing and hula-hoop competitions. People from near and far gathered to celebrate their passion: the 1950s.

Waynesburg Prosperous & Beautiful’s 50s Committee hosted the sixteenth annual 50s Fest and Car Cruise Saturday, Sept. 9. High Street was shut down for most of the day, as classic cars and music from the “Golden Age” blared from speakers and people filled the street from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Doug Wilson, an adjunct professor of communications and co-chair of the 50s committee, serves as the master of ceremonies. He said the event was originally conceptualized to attract people to the area.

“[The event started as] a way to bring people into Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, to see what our town has to offer,” said Wilson. “From there it has it has continued to grow and expand: a lot of downtown businesses have specials. Some places will have people dressed up from the era.”

While the event usually attracts a large crowd, the attendance truly relies on the weather, said Wilson.

“These people are very particular on bringing their vehicles out…some of them have literally tens of thousands of dollars tied up in their vehicles,” said Wilson. “This year, the sunny day and cool temperature was the perfect combination.”

Indeed, more than 145 registered cars, trucks and motorcycles were in attendance – although Wilson acknowledged that there were more that didn’t take the time to do the free registration.

Michelle Keith - The Yellow Jacket

Wilson said there is a mix of locals and visitors for the event. While there are no trophies at the event, as most of the crowd prefer to simply enjoy the environment, Wilson said there is a prize for the person who drives the farthest to attend the event. This year’s winner traveled 244 miles from Ohio, and there were two people who were noted as honorable mentions for their 211-mile trips.

Wilson is one of the core committee members that has attended every event and said each one is a lot of fun. The committee is always looking to attract new spectators every year, in addition to bringing returners back. The event also has many crucial sponsors, who, according to Wilson, help with the financials. The event has not changed drastically from its first year, but Wilson noted that the committee makes it a priority to ask attendees for feedback and ways to improve the event every year.

According to Wilson, the event is going strong and he believes the tradition will carry on for many years to come. A fan of the “Golden Age” himself, Wilson said he most values the bond created by people at the event.

“[My favorite aspect of the day would have to be] the comradery,” said Wilson. “The music, the cars – the whole atmosphere brings everybody together. Everyone that comes out to the event is just there to have a good time.”