Classics by the Lake brings vintage car enthusiasts to Sturges Park

Engines gleamed beneath the September sky during the 17th annual Classics by the Lake held at Sturges Park in downtown Buffalo on Saturday, Sept. 6.  

The fall car show returned to the lakeside, drawing collectors, families, and casual admirers to the picturesque park hugging the Buffalo Lake shoreline.

Rows of vintage beauties lined the grassy field—sleek ’50s convertibles with whitewall tires, muscle cars from the ’60s with bold stripes and bright paintjobs, and an Auburn Speedster from the 1930’s that looked as though it had rolled straight out of history. Owners stood proudly nearby, swapping stories of restoration projects, numerous road trips, and the joy of keeping automotive history alive. 

Buffalo Lake provided a stunning backdrop for the many high-end vehicles on hand. Children entertained themselves with classic hula hoop toys, dancing and swaying their hips along with music played by Chopper - World’s Nuttiest DJ. Their energy and smiles mixed with the excited conversations of area car enthusiasts. Food vendors offered a variety of tasty treats and beverages to keep show goers fueled as they hiked along the rows of vintage automobiles. As the afternoon stretched on, the sun slowly began to peak out from behind the clouds, warming folks after a chilly start to the morning. 

Sponsored by Morrie’s Buffalo Ford, the car show was free for spectators and show car owners. Mark Johanneck, one of the main organizers behind the show, shared that Classics by the Lake began as a way to bring people to downtown Buffalo. 

“The Chamber of Commerce came and asked us to do something to help bring people into the city, all these years ago. So, we said, ‘let’s do a vintage auto show,’ and that’s how it all started.”

Classics by the Lake has grown into a popular event, with a variety of vehicles showcased.

“We usually get 400 to 500 hundred vehicles. A lot of people just come. They don’t always register. They just want to come and walk around. They don’t necessarily want another trophy, or to take a trophy away from someone else,” stated Johanneck, highlighting that many classic car enthusiasts enjoy the community and camaraderie while visiting with old friends and making a few new ones. Classics by the Lake is more than just a chance to show off some cool-looking cars, it’s an opportunity for many folks to unite for fellowship and shared passion. 

Voting took place amongst car owners with an award ceremony at 2:00 p.m. Trophies were awarded to the top 35 cars, along with the Best Original Survivor, Best Street Rod, and Best in Show. 

As the award announcements wrapped up, spectators lingered, taking one last walk among the rows of chrome and steel, pausing to admire the craftsmanship of another era. The show was more than just about cars—it was about community, tradition, and the beauty of enjoying a perfect fall day by the lake.