NORWICH – The largest classic automobile show in the northeast region will take place at the Fairgrounds in the City of Norwich this weekend.

The 54th annual Rolling Antiquers Auto Show and Flea Market will roll into town for Memorial Day weekend, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday at the County Fairgrounds, along East Main St., in Norwich.

The spectacle draws thousands of spectators and dozens of venders as hundreds of drivers show off their rides and compete for a variety of awards.

In fair weather the event typically attracts 8,000 to 10,000 from across the nation, said Rolling Antiquers Old Car Club President Alan Strong.

Strong said in past years and in good weather as many as 500 drivers could be participating in the show each day, and in the worst he's seen 80 in the pouring rain.

“It sometimes depends on the weather, but rain or shine the show will go on,” said Strong.

“People participate in the show because they like being able to show what they drive or worked on and they enjoy the like-minded appreciation for the cars, the people. They also like to win the trophies and brag a little, some are very competitive. People are proud of their vehicles,” he said.

The event, which has not lost its shine over the years, has become so popular it is seen as an institution by local car enthusiasts.