About This Festival
Surrounding Area
Bedford, Indiana, is a quintessential Midwestern city nestled in the rolling hills of Lawrence County. Known for its local limestone heritage—the region is often called the "Limestone Capital of the World"—Bedford boasts a charming downtown with historic architecture, local shops, and friendly residents. The surrounding landscape is marked by a mix of farmland, woodlands, and scenic country roads, offering a picturesque backdrop for outdoor events. The city has a strong sense of community, and local businesses like those sponsoring the car show are staples of civic pride and support.
Event Vibe
The Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services Annual Car Show is a distinctly local affair, radiating both Midwestern hospitality and heartfelt purpose. The atmosphere is lively and family-friendly, with the roar of engines and the gleam of chrome setting the tone for the day. The event’s core purpose—raising funds for local cancer patients—imbues it with an authentic sense of solidarity and hope. Attendees are welcomed into a festive, supportive environment where neighbors come together to celebrate classic cars, share stories, and contribute to a vital cause. The mood is buoyant, patriotic, and optimistic, with a strong undercurrent of community care.
Activities and Event Schedule
The car show is a comprehensive, all-day affair with a broad spectrum of activities for participants and spectators alike. The event attracts enthusiasts and families from across Southern Indiana, as well as casual visitors looking for a fun day out.
Activities
- Vehicle Show: Featuring a wide array of cars, bikes, trikes, and tractors, entrants have the chance to display their rides and compete in multiple categories. The first 200 entries receive a commemorative dash plaque.
- Awards and Prizes: Numerous prizes are awarded throughout the day, culminating in an afternoon awards ceremony.
- Food Concessions: Local food vendors offer a variety of options, making it easy to grab a bite while enjoying the show.
- Shopping: Unique merchandise and local crafts are available for purchase, supporting both the cause and area artisans.
- 50/50 Raffle: A perennial favorite, the raffle offers attendees the chance to win while directly supporting cancer patient services.
- Spectator Activities: Admission is free for those who simply want to wander among the vehicles, admire the workmanship, and soak in the festival spirit.
Rough Schedule
| Time | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM–Noon | Vehicle Registration | Hobson Ford Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Lot |
| 9:00 AM–3:30 PM | Vehicle Display, Food Concessions, Shopping, Raffle | Event Grounds (Entire Lot) |
| 3:30 PM | Awards Ceremony | Main Stage/Announcement Area |
All activities are held rain or shine at the Hobson Ford Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealership in Bedford.
History and Founding
The Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services Annual Car Show is now in its 24th year, having established itself as one of Southern Indiana’s premier automotive gatherings. The event was founded as a fundraiser to support the Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services, a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to assisting local cancer patients with practical needs—such as food supplements, transportation, medical supplies, and equipment—when insurance or other resources fall short. The car show has grown in both size and impact over the years, becoming a key community tradition and a primary source of funding for the organization’s vital work. Every dollar raised stays within Lawrence County, directly benefiting local families battling cancer.
Conclusion
From its scenic setting in Bedford to its uplifting, community-driven atmosphere, the Annual Car Show for Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services is much more than a typical car show. It stands as a testament to local resilience, generosity, and the power of collective action in the fight against cancer. Whether you’re there for the vehicles, the food, the camaraderie, or the cause, the event offers a memorable and meaningful experience with deep roots in the community it serves.