New England's Largest
Classic Car Show

In 1999, Ron Fournier and his breakfast buddies — including Chuck Gordon — had an idea: shut down Elm Street, fill it with classic cars, and raise money for kids and families who needed it most. That first show drew a crowd nobody expected. It never stopped growing.

Ron and Chuck poured everything into this show. Chuck, a respected insurance professional and community volunteer, co-chaired the event and brought the same energy to Cruising Downtown that he brought to everything — from building hot rods to raising his grandsons. He passed away on April 5, 2013.

Ron — a true car guy who built a 2,200-horsepower '34 Ford and opened Ron's Toy Shop on Elm Street in 1991 — kept the show going and growing. When health setbacks came in 2011, Ron worked with Norm Lavigne to bring the Manchester Rotary Club on board, ensuring the show would outlast any one person. He joined the Rotary Club himself and never stopped contributing — his time, his laughter, his love for this community. Ron passed away on February 18, 2021.

What started as an idea between friends has become 25 years of roaring engines, packed sidewalks, and all proceeds going to local nonprofits serving children and families throughout Manchester. When the Rotary Club needed someone to carry the torch, they turned to Ron's son — and the Fournier family answered the call.