Bixby Knolls Dragster Expo & Car Show July 14, 2012
By
Bixby Knolls Dragster Expo & Car Show
Bixby Knolls, CA
7-14-12
Story & Photos by: Roger Rohrdanz
The Dragster Expo and Car Show is the signature annual event in Bixby Knolls. Located less than four miles from the site of the legendary Lions Drag Strip. This event honors the memory of those days from 1955-1972 when Top Fuel Dragsters terrorized the asphalt of the Lions Drag Strip, and put Long Beach on the Drag Racing map. 16 of these Nitro burning, fire breathing, machines simultaneously fired-up and “cackled”, the noise was deafening, while the smell of Nitro fuel in the air brought tears to your eyes.
Also featured were more than 280 classic and specialty cars in multiple award categories. This year's event featured BMX PROS trick team demonstrations, great live music, food trucks, vendors, and special appearances by Don “The Snake” Prudhomme, Tom ”Mongoose” McEwen and (ex-LA Ram) Fred Dryer. They were signing autographs in the downtown setting of Bixby Knolls with a mix of boutique retail, fine dining in a pedestrian-friendly, mid-century ambience with vibrant neighborhoods.
Proceeds raised from the event benefit the Long Beach Special Olympics.