Carlisle Events reports more than 30,000 people in attendance for its Winter AutoFest Lakeland 2020 held this past weekend at the Sun n’ Fun Expo Campus in central Florida.
“Carlisle Events took what were literally cars in a field in rural Florida in 2012 and with the support of car clubs, vendors, enthusiasts and more, built one of the biggest and best events anywhere within the bustling city of Lakeland,” the Pennsylvania-based events company said in its post-AutoFest report.
Special displays included the 42nd annual NCRS Winter Regional Corvette show with more than 100 of the fiberglass-bodied Chevrolet sports cars taking part.
Also taking place was a two-day Carlisle Auctions of collector cars, with a 2005 Ford GT topping all sales at $256,800, and a collector car parts swap meet.
The Sun n’ Fun Expo Campus is adjacent to Lakeland Linder International Airport and the Florida Air Museum. Hangars A, B, C, D were used for the AutoFest with vintage aircraft on display.
New for 2020 was a special showcase for Mopar vehicles, a racing display, and a gathering of cars from 1970.
Of the Mopars, Carlisle reported: “With their vibrant colors showcased amidst a backdrop of palm trees and sunshine, not only did the cars bring the people, but some special guests too. Joining the display were TV host and overall car guy Lou Santiago along with racing legend Herb McCandless.”
Carlisle’s next event is the Spring Carlisle scheduled for April 22 in Pennsylvania.
