Utah's newest off-season car show

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Headline: Utah's newest off-season car show

Carvention, a local annual car show, is returning to Utah for a second year with new activities including hands-on lessons in pin striping and lettering. These lessons are free for anyone in attendance.

“This is a car show for car people,” said Dustin Everett, a participant from Sandy. “It is geared toward getting people into the car scene and is an opening show for the season.”

Another new addition to the three day event is “Freedom Friday.” When any veteran, firefighter, police officer or EMT will receive half off admission. The staff members of the show want to show their appreciation for these servicemen by offering this discount.

Regular price for admission at the gate is $10. Weekend and family passes are also available.

Carvention is being directed by JC Hackett. Hackett is known in the automotive community for putting on many car shows all around Utah.

“JC doesn’t really have any staff, it is all volunteers, but JC does 90 percent of it,” Everett said. “A big reason I go is because of my loyalty to JC. We joke that cars are just an excuse to get together.”

The event is expected to draw thousands of spectators from all around Utah to see the unique cars on display.

“We have roughly 130 cars this year,” Hackett said. “The show has grown in popularity from last year. We had to turn down over 100 cars for the event this year.”

Hackett also believes classic automobiles and the people who own them have a large impact on Utah.

“Classic cars are a big asset to the community and it is important to hang onto them,” Hackett said. “These people are some of the most generous people you will ever meet. Last year we donated over $7000 to charity from this event.”

A total of more than $300,000 was donated at all of his car shows last year, Hackett said.

All proceeds from Carvention will be donated to The Kauri Sue Hamilton School in Riverton.

The event will be located at the Salt Lake County Equestrian Center in South Jordan, and parking is free for everyone. It begins on Feb. 26 at noon and ends on Feb. 28 at 5 p.m.