Thunder on the River Car Show in Columbia, PA

Each year, on the third Saturday in June, the charming town of Columbia, Pennsylvania, transforms into a vibrant hub of nostalgia and excitement. The Thunder on the River Car Show invites car enthusiasts to take a walk down memory lane, surrounded by the glimmering paint and polished chrome of over 400 vintage cars. This year, the event will be held on June 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering a perfect blend of classic cars, great music, good friends and delicious food. B.F. Hiestand House is less than 3 miles from downtown Columbia, making our historic bed-and-breakfast the perfect place to stay when you're in town for Thunder on the River.

Locust Street, the heart of Columbia along the Susquehanna River, is closed off for this spectacular event, turning into a sprawling showcase of automotive history. The street buzzes with energy as car owners and spectators share stories and admire the intricate details of vehicles from bygone eras. From sleek 1950s Cadillacs to rugged 1970s muscle cars, every corner of the show radiates with the charm of a different automotive epoch.

Sponsored by the Columbia Lions Club, Thunder on the River is more than just a car show. It's a community event with a heart of gold. The Lions Club, renowned for its charitable efforts, ensures that the proceeds from the event benefit numerous local charities. Vehicle owners also take part in the event's charitable mission by donating food and money to the Columbia Food Bank, directly supporting local families in need. This act of generosity is a testament to the spirit of the car show community and the overarching mission of the Columbia Lions Club.

In addition to the awe-inspiring cars, the event features dozens of trophies awarded to standout vehicles. Categories range from Best in Show to People's Choice, ensuring that every type of car has a chance to shine. The anticipation builds as the judges make their rounds, and the excitement peaks when the winners are announced, their hard work and dedication recognized with gleaming trophies.

As you stroll down Locust Street, the sounds of classic rock 'n' roll fill the air, provided by local bands that keep the atmosphere lively. Food vendors line the street, offering a variety of treats, from savory barbecue to sweet funnel cakes, ensuring no one leaves hungry.

Thunder on the River Car Show is a celebration of community, automotive history and charity. It's an event where past meets present, where the love for vintage cars brings people together, and where every polished hood and fender reflects the generosity of spirit that defines Columbia, PA. Come be a part of this unforgettable journey through time.