Queen Anne’s Swedish Cultural Center will host a special show featuring antique automobiles manufactured in Sweden.
The second annual Swedish Car Show will take place June 4 and feature 25 Volvo and Saab brand cars built prior to 1974. The show is part of a daylong event celebrating National Sweden Day and will run from noon to 4 p.m.
Event organizer Dick Libby is excited to show off these classic Scandinavian cars.
“These cars will bring back memories of when they the observers) were younger,” said Libby. “It might have been their first car in Sweden, or you know it might have been their first car in the U.S.”
Kristine Leander, executive director of the Swedish Cultural Center, said that it’s a perfect opportunity for viewers to see classic cars and learn a little bit about Sweden all in one place.
“It is a time to feel proud to be Swedish American,” said Leander. “People feel nostalgic and warm about Sweden.”
Leander said Swedish foods and beverages will be available for purchase at the event. Attendees may also make reservations for dinner, which will follow the show at the cultural center. They’re serving salmon and potatoes.
Gary Ramstad, president of Puget Sound Volvo Sports, began the event last year. He thought it was the perfect opportunity to showcase classic cars and bring attention to Swedish culture on National Sweden Day. He’s also an avid Volvo collector.
Ramstad chose to limit the manufactured year prior to 1974 because before then, the models changed every year. He believes this provides more variety for the show.
Event coordinator Libby stated: “A lot of us kind of look at these (Volvos and Saabs) as an art object because the designs are so pleasing.
“These cars will evoke memories.”
The public is invited to this free event, and to share their memories of these cars from the 1960's and 1970's. Numerous awards will be presented.
After the car show, Swedish National Day will be celebrated
with folkdancing, entertainment, and a special Swedish dinner. (RSVP for the dinner at: www.swedishculturalcenter.org).
In addition to the car show and dinner, a car wash will be put on by the cultural center to raise money for a local girl’s soccer team. The money raised will help them travel to Sweden.
The Swedish Cultural Center is located at 1920 Dexter Ave. N.
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