Sandpoint Article
SANDPOINT’S BIGGEST PARTY
Lost in the ’50s celebrates 30 years.
By Patty Hutchens.
Photos by Jessica Herbig & courtesy The Injectors.
It was 30 years ago when Carolyn Gleason organized the first ever Lost in the ’50s weekend in Sandpoint. And what started as a desire to bring a bit of Motown to a small town in North Idaho has grown into an annual tradition for many. Now people from all over the country arrive in their vintage cars, poodle skirts and penny loafers, and turn back the clocks of time.
When Gleason first began, she knew she would need more than just music to draw people in. But what was that extra element going to be? She and a friend considered showcasing vintage cars. Gleason appealed to locals, going to door to door asking those with vintage cars to bring them to the event. That first year, there were 26 cars, and by the third year, it had grown to over 150.
This year’s 30-year celebration promises to be bigger and better than ever! On Thursday, May 14, the weekend kicks off at the Panida Theater with the 11th annual Rock ‘n’ Roll Heaven. Sure to be a sellout, this show features Justin Shandor, Lance Lipinsky and Bobby Brooks Wilson who will keep everyone on their feet with their Elvis, Jerry Lee and Jackie Wilson impersonations.
On Friday evening at 6pm, the Classic Car Parade, featuring hundreds of unique vintage vehicles, will travel through downtown entertaining many. But don’t head home just yet. Following the parade will be the street dance at Jeff Jones Town Square where everyone from young kids to adults can dance the night away. If you are looking for something more adult oriented, there will be a show and dance at Bonner County Fairgrounds. The evening will feature Rocky and the Rollers and the Crests featuring Tommy Mara.
Saturday will bring an opportunity to see the classic cars up close with the downtown car show, which will run from 9am to 4pm. Following a day downtown, you will want to get into your dancing shoes and head up to the Bonner County Fairgrounds where none other than Frankie Avalon will serenade the crowd. Also appearing will be the Dixie Cups and another appearance by Rocky and the Rollers.
The weekend will wrap up with the traditional Aspirin Rally 5K Fun Run and Car Rally starting at Second Avenue Pizza on Sunday at 10am, followed by a car rally at 11:30am.
Lost in the ’50s is a long standing tradition for not just Sandpoint residents but many throughout the country. A heartfelt thank you to Carolyn Gleason and her volunteers for the tireless work that goes into this. It is a gift to our community! Now let’s get ready to rock ‘n’ roll!
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