Do'n it in Dallas - the 2011 Dallas Autorama

Images and text by: Diana Merrill Claussen, Dallas

The 51st Annual O’Reilly Auto Parts AutoRama opened on Friday, February 18, at the Dallas Market Hall. The show features the cream of the crop when it comes to national and international winning show cars. There are vehicles ranging from yesteryear classics to high-end custom rods and even late models that have been modified arriving straight from dealerships. The AutoRama is sure to attract crowds, families and enthusiasts to the Dallas Metroplex this weekend.

This year, first time entries into the show will be competing for the Dallas Diamond Award, and the winner will be chosen from the final top four competitors. Entries include rookie sensation 2010 winner of the Ridler Award – the ‘Gold Digger’. The awards will be handed out at the awards ceremony on the shows last day, Sunday February 20. Besides car owners, automotive enthusiasts, and vendors, there are several car clubs on hand, including the Lonestar Classics Youth car club. The Meguiar Car Care display will be giving tips and demos all weekend for keeping your ride clean and shiny. In addition to the classy vehicles, there will also be appearances by Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, as well as other local sports stars. To make it a full weekend, there are addition events such as burnout contests, a nitro dragster cackelfest that brings back memories, and even the Legendary Big Foot will add ‘a car crushing thrill’ to complete this sensational Summit Showcar weekend. On Sunday, the event runs from 10:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., at which time will be the closing of the awards ceremony with the announcement of the Dallas Diamond Award winner.