Carlisle Ford Nationals weekend hosts all things Ford, but it's ultimately known for its growing Mustang showfield. However, for 2016, the Edsels, Thunderbirds, Torinos, Fairlines, and Mustangs will be joined by another type of horse, the Pinto. The Pinto Stampede will be returning for the first time since 2011 to honor the 45th anniversary of their loveable car.
Ford weekend will run June 3-5 this year and on the first day, dozens of Pintos will arrive following their scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Cars from as far as the west coast will cruise to Carlisle to gather and enjoy the world's largest all-Ford event. Named as the top enthusiast moment of 2015 by Ford Performance, Ford Nationals weekend will spotlight this '70s juggernaut and its very unique owner base. All types of Pintos, from station wagons to Roundabouts, will be there.
Seeing one Pinto today is rare, and it is even more rare to see so many in one place. Combine that with the fact that the leader of the Stampede, Norm Bagi, typically enters his Boss Pinto into the burnout contest, which will be a real treat for everyone.
The stampede itself will begin June 1 in Little Switzerland, NC, and participants will make the trek north on the scenic Blue RidgeParkway over the span of the next three days. Billed as "The Blue Ridge to the Blue Oval," Pintos from all eras of production will make stops along the parkway for photos, food, and fun. The first pit stop will take place in Meadows of Dan, VA. After an overnight in a town that's just as scenic in real life as it sounds on paper, the stampede will continue north to its end in Waynesboro, VA before once more spending the night. Finally, the Pintos will finish out their cruise to Carlisle for their grand entrance and fun-filled weekend.
"The first Pinto Stampede was a very special event and it marked the 40th anniversary of the Pinto," said Norm Bagi, the Trail Boss. "Every year we have a Stampede and the question comes up, when are we going back to Carlisle? The 45th anniversary of the Pinto seemed like the right time since we had so much fun the last time around and nothing compares to the Ford Nationals at Carlisle. The Stampede, which makes its way around the country to different and new places each year, is honored to make a return trip back to our first home, the Carlisle Ford Nationals."
Once the Pintos arrive in Carlisle, they will cruise in with all the fanfare deserving of a 45th anniversary display. There will be dedicated Pinto parking and plans are ongoing for guests and seminars to be part of the showcase, as well. Check out the website for more information.