Cruise Nite tour hits the road, reaching Seniors across Kearney

KEARNEY, Neb. - The streets of Kearney were filled with vehicles of all shapes and sizes Wednesday night as Cruise Nite's Classic Car Tour rolled through town.

The event is just one part of Cruise Nite's six-day festival, featuring around 300 cars making their way to various assisted living homes across the city, bringing the parade directly to seniors who would not be able to attend the downtown event otherwise.

The Classic Car Tour is a relatively new addition to Cruise Nite, created in response to high demand from local seniors eager to be part of the festivities.

"I just enjoy that they do this for the facilities in town where we can see all of the cars because for many it's hard to go when they're showing them on the bricks so it's really nice to be able to have them drive through and see them," said car enthusiast and Kearney nursing home resident Linda Salter. 

Crowds of all ages joined in on the fun, including visitors from out of town. For many, it's a chance to show off their rides and connect with the community.

Tour participant JR Reyes jokingly said "I have three daughters but this is still my baby," regarding his 1976 Pontiac Trans Am which he's had for over 40 years. "I think my youngest daughter is going to take it when I pass on, she's ready for it. She used to go to car cruises with me," said Reyes. 

As the Classic Car Cruise grows every year, it becomes more than just a spectacle. It's a celebration of history, community, and craftsmanship.

"My dad was a mechanic so he always had old cars that he was working on and bringing home and I really liked some of the real old cars that had the funny horns. I really liked those," said Salter. 

The Classic Car Tour continues to grow as local tradition, honoring the past while cruising into the future.

Cruise nite will continue with daily activities lasting through Sunday, including a downtown show, live music, and more.