Elvis, Classic Cars Found at Annual Sock Hop

Elvis was alive and well and was spotted Saturday in Laguna Niguel at  's annual sock hop and car show. 

“This is something fun for the kids and families to do to celebrate the end of the school year,” said Lori Preijers, who helped coordinate the event. "It really had the charm I was hoping for that our school exudes. It reminded me of an old-time carnival with old-time charm."

More than 500 people stopped by to try their luck at carnival games and check out classic cars on display. Money raised from the sock hop and car show go toward various school programs and PTA-related events.  At last count, the event has raised $15,000.

Teachers, students and families got into the 1950s themed show by donning outfits reflective of the era. Elvis was walking around sporting his muttonchop sideburns and gold aviator sunglasses; teen girls opted for long skirts, and others stood in line to get their faces painted. Others found balloon-making a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon.

Attendee Holly Wrobel said, "Crown Valley Elementary is the hidden gem of Laguna Niguel, and Saturday's sock hop/carnival was a wonderful, whole-community event." 

Missy Wiesen added, "It was a fun-filled day for the whole family. We enjoyed the live music while the kids enjoyed playing games and visiting with their friends."

In another section, people tried their skill at one of the more popular carnival games by tossing an inflatable football through various holes to test their aim.

Fresh Park Skate Co. donated ramps, rails and boxes for local skaters to ride and show off their moves, while others enjoyed burgers from Ruby's. 

Crown Valley’s PTA President Angela Maroon said, “The last couple of years we have been trying to make this even bigger and better than previous years.”

Local bands such as , and Hot Rod Trio took to the stage and had many people dancing throughout the afternoon.

"The variety of music kept the event lively all day—from the contemporary hits of the first two bands Sweet Mojo and Ugly Paint to the rockabilly sound of the Hot Rod Trio. So much fun!" Jen Hand said.

The car show turned out to be a huge draw. Festival-goers perused the parking lot that is typically filled with teachers' cars to gaze at all kinds of classics, including a 1961 Cadillac and 1919 Ford.

“Since Laguna Niguel doesn’t have an annual car show, we decided to add one because it went with our theme,” Maroon said. “We have had people from all over bring cars to the event, with some coming as far as Riverside and others just living up the street.”

The sock hop has been a major fundraiser for the 40-year-old school—the oldest in Laguna Niguel—and last year raised $8,000. 

"We had almost 60 cars, and the owners really enjoyed themselves," Preijers said.  "A lot of them said they ran into old friends they hadn't seen for quite some time.  As far as the carnival part, I still have kids stopping me telling me, 'It was the best sock hop ever.  I can't wait for next year!' "

Perhaps Craig Wrobel summed up the day best: "It was sweet. Good times!"