2nd Annual Strat’s Vs Skip's Reunion Car Show & Swap Meet

2nd Annual Strat’s Vs Skip's Memorial Day Car Show & Swap meet 09/07/2026 8:30 am-2:30p 1/2 mile N of North Ave Addison, Illinois. The Blue Line Café, is part of the Ice Rink, that will be closed today, providing nearly 300 parking spaces Everyone was taken by 10:30 last time All vehicles are welcome! Entry fee for the car show is $20. Swap meet area spaces are also available for $20 A Fundraiser for the Veterans Trust Foundation Unique top 40 themed awards will be presented at 2:15 pm, including the Best Veterans, Strat's and Skip's and Club Award. Skips Drive-in closed permanently in July 1973, three months after the passing of its owner, William "Skip" Nielsen. Polk Brothers subsequently purchased the property, demolishing it in the early 1980s. The land was later partially sold to the current McDonald's location. Strat's Diner has also become a legend, soon to be converted into a tire center. The decision to sell was difficult, as business was not declining; however, Strat needed a break 35 years 7 days a week. The stories surrounding the events at 1st and North Ave, Melrose Park, and North Ave, Villa Park, are legendary, with a combined total of seven decades of high-octane cruising and car shows. Contrary to popular belief, the culture of hot rods and burger joints was not exclusive to California. Chicago has been at the forefront of this culture since 1948, with Skip's being the premier destination, followed by Strat's. Although cruising experienced a decline in the late 70's, Strat and his diners revived the tradition in the mid 1980s and sustained it until 2024 for 38 years All car enthusiasts from the past are invited to attend and share memories of days gone with fellow car enthusiasts and friends of these two iconic diners with a hot rod attitude. Entertainment 101.5 FM Cruising Music Radio will be present, playing Chicago's top hits of these diners 1952 to 2024, taking you back old memory lane. At noon, the legendary Lenny's Band will perform on the Deck playing popular hits from the 1950s to the 2000s. The Blue Line Bar & Café will serve breakfast, lunch, and drink specials. Dine-in or outdoor seating is available on the deck overlooking the cars near the Band . For more information, please call 224-587-6803