Submitted by: Nancy Dowling
Crofton’s Cruisin’ Day originated in 2005 as Doyle and Joyce Stevens made the rounds of various regional car shows when the idea of hosting one in Crofton became a reality.
At that time, the couple noticed in particular that a car show in Ponca had a festive atmosphere enhanced by food tents and music.
Thus began Crofton’s first car show by the Crofton Community Club taking place in the South City Park in 2006.
The committee organizing the first show included Mick Reifenrath, Brett Boecker and the Stevens’.
The car entries for the first show were solicited by way of posters and word of mouth with an entry fee of $5 each.
The contestants were also the judges and trophies in the 12 categories were sponsored by area businesses. A single food stand managed by Jody Neuhalfen and a car wash by the high school cheerleaders were part of the original venue. The early years of the event included power wheel races with an obstacle course for kids along with remote control car races.
Fast forward to 2025 as the event has evolved into a major city-wide festival.
The Community Club chose a day (the fourth Saturday in August) in order to not compete with Yankton’s Riverboat Days and to coordinate with the city-wide rummage sales sponsored by the Crofton Senior Center which draws many visitors from out-of-town.
The St. Rose Knights of Columbus Grillfest has been part of the event since 2010, supplying tasty food options while hosting a friendly competition among its members. Children’s activities feature face-painting, a bouncy house and a kiddie train ride along with chalk art, a basketball throw and a corn hole toss with medals being awarded to top competitors in different age groups.
Jonelle Thoene and the FCCLA students volunteer to facilitate the youth activities.
The vehicles on display feature vintage cars as well as motorcycles and tractors. There will be 32 trophies awarded in many different categories. Pre-registration is not necessary, but entries for the show should register 9 - 11a.m. on Saturday morning.
Musicians in the park gazebo are central to the atmosphere. This year, music will be provided by the local talent of Jay Gilbertson, Tom Zoss and Kim Sawatzke.
A raffle featuring large prizes for all ages, donated by local businesses is supplemented by matching funds from Modern Woodmen. This year’s proceeds will be earmarked for directional signs for Crofton pointing visitors to the schools, business district, swimming pool and ball parks.
New to this year’s celebration is a large adult cornhole tournament in the park in keeping with this popular trend. There will be a nominal fee to enter and cash prizes will be awarded.
Needless to say, a huge event like this requires the work of many volunteers. These volunteers help with set up, street barricades, registrations, traffic control, pop stand, raffle ticket sales, kids’ games, car vote tallies, trophy presentations and clean-up.
This year’s event will take place Saturday, August 23, 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. in Crofton’s South City Park. The Crofton Community Club is looking forward to another great turnout.
Volunteers are always welcome! If anyone would like to donate some time, contact Joyce Stevens at (605) 661-5736.