The Proprietor Review

July 27th 2025, Central Park till 3:00 p.m..

The Nicola Valley Cruisers are a vibrant car club based in Merritt, British Columbia, known for their passion for classic, vintage, and modern vehicles. While the specific number of 302 members isn’t consistently stated, it’s clear they have a significant and active membership that participates in various events throughout the year.
Here’s a breakdown of what they do and how they enjoy their leisure time:
Key Activities and Events:
* Annual Show ‘n’ Shine: This is their signature event, a beloved summer car show held annually in Central Park, Merritt. It draws car enthusiasts from across British Columbia and beyond. It features a diverse array of vehicles, from muscle cars and vintage classics to modern sports cars, trucks, and even electric bikes. The event is free for the public and includes live entertainment, food vendors, prizes, and a festive atmosphere. It’s a major community event and a highlight of their year. In 2025, the 30th annual Show ‘n’ Shine is scheduled for Sunday, July 27th.
* Weekly Meetings/Cruises: The club holds regular weekly meetings, often at local spots like the A&W on Voght Street. These gatherings allow members to showcase their cars, socialize, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. They sometimes include activities like garage tours.
* Spring Dance/Rock ‘n’ Roll Dance: The Nicola Valley Cruisers also host social events like their annual Spring Dance. These events often feature live music (like the Coquihalla Coyotes) and are an opportunity for members and the community to enjoy a night of retro tunes and camaraderie.
* Community Involvement and Charity: The club is actively involved in giving back to the community. They often donate funds raised from their events to local groups or causes, such as the local Food Bank or the Nicola Valley Fall Fair.
* Participation in Other Automotive Events: Members also participate in other car-related events, sometimes joining tours of antique or classic car clubs visiting Merritt.
How They Enjoy Their Leisure Time:
For the Nicola Valley Cruisers, leisure time largely revolves around their shared love for automobiles. This includes:
* Showcasing and Maintaining Their Vehicles: Members take pride in their cars, whether they are meticulously restored classics or unique modern vehicles. A significant part of their leisure involves maintaining, customizing, and preparing their cars for display.
* Socializing and Camaraderie: The club fosters a strong sense of community. Members enjoy spending time together, sharing stories, discussing cars, and building friendships with like-minded individuals.
* “Cruisin'”: As their name suggests, simply “cruising” with their cars, enjoying the open road and the scenery of the Nicola Valley, is a popular pastime.
* Attending and Organizing Events: The various events they host and participate in provide opportunities for entertainment, competition (friendly car show judging), and sharing their passion with a wider audience.
* Nostalgia and Preservation: For many, the car hobby is about preserving a piece of history or reliving memories associated with cars from their youth.
In essence, the Nicola Valley Cruisers are more than just a car club; they are a community that celebrates automotive heritage, enjoys social connections, and contributes to the vibrant atmosphere of Merritt, British Columbia.

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