Strat’s Vs Skip's Reunion Car Show
09/01/2025 8:30 am-2:30pm Registration till 11:am
Location: 475 S. Grace St. North & North Ave Addison, Illinois. The Blue Line Café, is part of the Ice Rink, that will be closed today, providing nearly 300 parking spaces.
All vehicles are welcome!
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, none of the owner's children wished to continue the business.
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.
All car enthusiasts from the past are invited to attend and share memories of days gone by with fellow car enthusiasts and friends of these two iconic diners with a hot rod attitude.
Entry fee for the car show is $20. Swap meet area spaces are also available for $20. (Fundraiser for Special Needs Kids)
Copies of the DVD TV documentary "Skip’s The Legend Lives" will be available for purchase, signed by the host, Frank Pope. A Strats DVD is currently in production for next year's reunion.
Unique top 40 themed awards will be presented at 2 pm, including the Best Strat's and Skip's Award.
Entertainment by DJ VJ Rudy "The K" 101.5 FM Cruising Music Radio will be present, playing Chicago's top hit from each year of these diners 1952 to 2024, featuring 72 number ones taking you back old memory lane.
At noon, the legendary Lenny's Band will perform on stage, 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.
For more information, please call 224-587-6803
