The first Cruise‑In of the 2026 season roared to life on Saturday, April 18, as dozens of classic cars, trucks and specialty vehicles lined the 300 block of Locust Street between 4 and 8 p.m. Hosted by the Delavan Optimist Club, the spring kickoff drew one of the strongest opening‑day crowds in recent years, with spectators filling the street from end to end.

The event quickly became a full‑community effort. Local businesses and organizations extended hours, offered specials and staffed up to welcome the influx of visitors. From shops and restaurants to volunteer groups and vendors, it was an all‑hands‑on‑deck evening that showcased Delavan’s signature hospitality.

Optimist Club members coordinated parking along the block as families, longtime cruisers, and first‑time attendees wandered among the polished chrome and restored engines. Music, conversation, and the smell of fresh food drifted through downtown as the sun set on a perfect spring night.
The evening’s 50/50 raffle winner, Aaron Sundell, donated his winnings back to the Optimist Club, drawing applause from the crowd. Door prizes also added excitement throughout the event:

Scott Shay — $25 gift card, donated by The Farmhouse
Jerry Wolf — $25 gift card to AO’s Ice Cream Parlor
Dirk Diekhoff — Pepsi metal thermometer donated by the An‑Teek Mall
Michael Buhl — Texaco sign donated by the An‑Teek Mall

Optimist Club organizers said they were thrilled by the turnout and grateful for the support of local businesses that helped make the season opener a success.
The Cruise‑Ins will continue on the third Saturday of each month through September, bringing classic cars, community spirit and summer‑evening energy back to historic Locust Street.