The Edelbrock Group trailer was on the East Coast from May 16-19 for Cruisin’ Ocean City in Ocean City, Maryland. The 33rd Annual Cruisin’ OC featured approximately 3,000 hot rods, classics, customs, and trucks, set against one of the most dramatic backdrops of any show in the nation, right on the beach next to the historic OC boardwalk.
Although EG Nation couldn’t attend, we were fortunate to have two dedicated EG sales representatives, Bill Garner and Brad Loden, working the trailer. They were super busy all weekend meeting customers to answer tech questions at the EG trailer. However, they were able to get away for a bit to snap some photos for us to enjoy.
OC Happenings
Cruisin’ OC is a four-day car show extravaganza, offering a plethora of activities from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday and 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday. The main events are all held at the picturesque beachside inlet parking lot beside the boardwalk and the Ocean City Convention Center. However, the excitement was not limited to these venues.
The entire OC area was transformed into a hub of excitement, with a multitude of car shows and events taking place. The offerings were diverse, catering to a wide range of interests. Participants and spectators were treated to live music, boardwalk parades, special guest appearances, featured cars, a swap meet, a vendor midway, a car corral, a pedal car show, a neon light car show, a pinup contest, a husband-calling contest, and much more. Celebrity appearances this year included Happy Days cast members Anson Wiliams and Donny Most, celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the program. The highlight for Thursday evening was Jay Leno’s stand-up comedy act at the OC Performing Arts Center on Thursday night, adding a touch of celebrity to the event.
Favorites of Cruisin’ OC
Bill and Brad say that the parade along the boardwalk each morning at 8:00 a.m. is a favorite part of the event for both participants and spectators. The parade is how many vehicles enter the car show area in the inlet parking lot daily. People line the route to get an up-close spot to see, hear, and smell the vehicles as they drive by. Bill also added that the cruising at night reminded him of the Street Machine Nationals in the late ’80s and early ’90s (although not as wild).
Despite rain showers and cool temperatures, the attendees’ spirits remained high, demonstrating their resilience and love for the event. The guys said it didn’t hurt customers from stopping by the EG trailer either, with “off-the-hook” foot traffic. Both Bill and Brad said they fielded multiple questions about carbs versus EFI, as many people still seem hesitant about whether to make the jump to electronics or stick with the tried-and-true. The TCI six-speed transmission and its power capability were also a hot topic.
Bill’s favorite vehicle was a mint baby blue and white mid-70s Ford Bronco, which he recommended for the best engine award. Brad’s favorite was a white Ford Falcon with blue racing stripes set up autocross style with a supercharged Coyote engine.
Planning Ahead
I don’t know about you, but Cruisin’ OC has been on my bucket list for several years. Though it’s a long way from the Edelbrock Group HQ, based on what Bill and Brad relayed, I think it is a show I need to move up my list. The 34th Annual Cruisin’ Ocean City is set for May 15-18, 2025. Put it on your calendar if you haven’t already done so. A special thanks to Brad Loden and Bill Garner for taking these photos and letting us know what we missed out there on the beach!
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