JACKSON, Miss. — Car enthusiasts from across Mississippi and neighboring states gathered at Smith-Wills Stadium on Sunday for the 2nd Annual Mississippi 601 Classic Car Show. Organizers say the event is about more than just vehicles.
The family-oriented event featured a wide variety of classic cars, custom trucks, motorcycles, and modern vehicles. As a result, it brought together participants and spectators from throughout the region.
Community at the Heart of the Event
For organizers Mista Maine and Anthony Robinson, the event serves as a celebration of Jackson’s automotive culture and community spirit.
“It’s all about Jackson for us, Jackson, MS, and the cars that we have here, the culture of Mississippi, and the culture of Jackson,” Mista Maine said. “This is very much a part of it — being with the cars, the trucks, and the different groups and families.”
Robinson emphasized the event’s focus on unity.
“It’s family-oriented,” Robinson said. “It’s about love and it’s about Jackson. Bringing people together.”
One of the new additions this year was a Power Wheels competition designed for younger participants.
“The kids’ Power Wheels, that’s a real big thing now,” Mista Maine said. “We’ve got the kids involved.”
Robinson added simply, “It’s about the kids.”
According to the organizers, the inspiration for the event came from a desire to showcase the positive side of the city. They also wanted to bring residents together.
“The city,” Mista Maine said when asked what inspired the show. “They say that the city can’t come together as one. Time and time, we’ve shown that that’s not the case. We can bring the city together all in one place and everyone can have a good time and go home with a full belly and a smile on their face.”
The organizers said they plan to continue hosting the event in the future.
“Yes sir,” Mista Maine said when asked whether the show would remain an annual event.
Car Enthusiasts Showcase Their Passion
Among the participants was Raymond resident Dustin Power, who said the show offered something for every type of automotive enthusiast.
“You’ve kind of got a little bit of everything,” Power said. “You’ve got newer models all the way to old school. To Jeeps, to trucks, to bikes. You have it all.”
Power, who regularly attends automotive events hosted by Robinson, said his passion for cars comes from both personal interest and family involvement.
“I’m in love with cars,” he said. “It gives you something to do. You get away from everything and meet new people and explore new opportunities. It’s a great vibe.”
For those who have never attended a car show, Power encouraged them to give it a try.
“Everybody’s family friendly,” he said. “We all get along. You can come in a bicycle or you can come in the biggest truck you could ever ride. We all get along.”
Visitors Travel From Across the Region
The event also attracted participants from outside Mississippi. Notably, this included members of the Fellowship of Corvette Owners from the New Orleans area.
“It’s not really like a club, more like a fellowship where all the guys get together,” said Patrick Turley, who displayed a customized 2007 Chevrolet Corvette at the show.
Turley and fellow participant Bert Coleman, who brought a 2019 Corvette Z06, said they regularly attend car shows throughout the region.
Reflecting on the event, Turley praised the organizers’ efforts.
“It’s a nice show,” he said. “The guys that put on this show put on a nice show.”
Held at Smith-Wills Stadium in Jackson, the 2nd Annual Mississippi 601 Classic Car Show highlighted the area’s automotive culture. Additionally, it provided a gathering place for families, collectors, and enthusiasts from across the Gulf South.
Editor’s Disclaimer: This article is based on on-site reporting, interviews conducted by Presence News, event promotional materials, and statements provided by event organizers and participants. Quotes have been edited lightly for clarity and style while preserving their original meaning.
