Long Beach held its Forty-Seventh annual Grand Prix kick-off event, Thunder Thursday.
The Pike was filled with car hobbyists, seasoned professionals, live music, and food vendors from 6 to 10:30 p.m. A churro stand serving raspados, elotes, and esquites held the biggest line of all the vendors.
Thunder Thursday had entertainment for everybody. Patrons enjoyed the Ferris wheel, a motorcycle stunt show, a small stage for live music, and a beer garden for adults.
Classic cars lined The Paseo of the Outlets, with car owners chatting nearby or exploring the imported sports cars set within the main tunnel. Attendees had the chance to meet new faces and a veteran at the event.
Tj Aguirre, a first-time attendee, said he was told to bring his classic Cadillac to share with the community. Aguirre hopes to continue attending shows as often as possible.
Along The Paseo, rows of classic cars sit idle as attendees gaze at their polished exteriors. Well maintained and propped by their owners, the spectrum of cars ranged from 50’s Cadillacs to BMWs to modified sports cars.
As the night rolled in, more people arrived, scattered throughout the event. The idea of bringing Long Beach together through car culture and great people has created a longstanding tradition in the city.
