Parsippany Revs Up for Lead East Auto Show

Every Labor Day weekend, the Parsippany Hilton opens its doors to more than 1,800 car enthusiasts who bring their love for cars and the doo wop era to life in a five-day-long 1950s-themed party.

This year will be no different. Travelers from at least 22 states will shine up, pack up and load up into their vintage automobiles and transform the hotel parking lots into the site for the 29th annual Lead East, the largest '50s party and car show on the East Coast. 

Party host Terry Cook posted a warm welcome on the Lead East website.

Cook describes Lead East as "an oldies music and old-car weekend unlike any event held anywhere."

"Over the years we've delivered a 100 percent American, 100 percent family, 100 percent fun series of events that celebrates the '50s."

Lead East officially starts Wednesday night for registered participants. It opens to spectators starting Thursday, and features a huge number of showcase cars to viewl

The event also presents vendors, a series of nighttime concerts, as well as daily shows both on the indoor and on the outdoor stage. Some of the music entertainment includes a cappella groups and Doo Wop Idol, for those who love to sing.

Attendees can also enjoy the yearly treat of seeing The Golden Gup along with the Rhythmhancers. The Golden Gup will host his famous late night parking lot party at 1 a.m. Sunday, and since the Jukemobile has been sold, he will be cruising around in his new ride.

When naviagting through Lead East, which encompasses nearly four parking lots surrounding the Hilton, spectators will be serenaded by '50s music through a public sound system. Vintage clothes and memorabilia will be on sale. And car nuts have the opportunity to chat with many of the car owners. Participants are always friendly, and don't be surprised if you get offered a burger, as tailgaiting the norm.

"Tens of thousands of people have come to our event and many have told us it is the best, most fun, most nostalgic event they have ever attended," Cook said. "Lead East is for vehicles from 1972 and earlier (1974 and earlier allowed Sunday)—but it's not just a car show."

If you plan on heading out to Lead East, here is the general admission information: 

(Tickets are sold only at the gate on the day of the event; no advance sales.) 

Adults - Thurs or Fri: $12
Adults - Sat or Sun: $20

Jr. & Sr. - Thurs or Fri : $8 
Jr. & Sr. - Sat or Sun $12

"Adult" -18 to 65 yrs old 
"Jr." - 12 to 17 yrs
"Sr." - 66 yrs and older 
"Children" - 11 & under

Kids are admitted free to the car show when accompanied by adult. 

Children will require a separate ticket for Friday, Saturday and Sunday night oldies concerts.

Lead East starts Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. and ends Sunday at midnight. For details, check out the schedule of events.