Tehachapi's Vibrant Automotive Celebration: A Showcase of Passion and Community

Tehachapi, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of California, is gearing up to host its annual car show, a beloved tradition that has captivated the community for decades. This year, the event has been officially adopted by the local chamber, solidifying its place as a cherished celebration of automotive enthusiasts and the town's rich heritage.

Revving Up for a Day of Automotive Splendor

The Thunder on the Mountain Car Show: A Tradition Reborn

The Thunder on the Mountain Car Show, a long-standing tradition in Tehachapi, has found a new home under the auspices of the local chamber. This year's event, scheduled for Saturday, September 28th from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., promises to be a true spectacle, showcasing over 250 stunning automobiles, an array of vendors, and a host of entertainment and activities that will delight attendees of all ages.The car show's origins can be traced back to 1997, when it was first created by the Tehachapi Car Club. Over the years, the event has evolved, with Race Communications organizing it for a few years before the chamber officially took the reins in 2023. This transition marks a new chapter in the show's history, ensuring its continued growth and success.

The Roar of Engines and the Thrill of Competition

One of the most anticipated moments of the car show is the synchronous engine start at precisely noon. As the vehicles come to life, the deep, vibrating roar of the engines echoes off the surrounding buildings and mountains, creating a thunderous symphony that captivates the senses. This awe-inspiring display is a testament to the power and passion that fuels the automotive enthusiasts in Tehachapi.The competition at the car show is equally thrilling, with a range of awards up for grabs. Each class will have a single winner, and additional accolades will be presented for categories such as Best in Show, Mayor's Choice, 1st Priority's Choice, Police Chief Choice, Youngblood (for registrants between the ages of 16 and 21), Best Interior, Best Engine Compartment, Best Staged, Best Paint, Farthest Traveled, and Popular Vote. The awards ceremony, scheduled for 1 p.m., will be the culmination of a day filled with friendly rivalry and automotive excellence.

Revving Up for a Charitable Cause

Alongside the car show, the community will come together to support a worthy cause. The Four Seasons Blue Star Moms & Associates will be hosting their 2nd Annual Charity Ride on the same day, September 28th. This event is open to all vehicles, not just motorcycles, and the proceeds will go towards supporting active-duty military, veterans, and Gold Star families.The charity ride will start at Tehachapi Furniture, 20302 W. Valley Blvd., between 9 and 10 a.m., and the approximately two-hour route will take participants through the picturesque Tehachapi countryside. A per rider/driver fee includes one poker hand, one rider patch, and a barbecue lunch, while a per passenger fee (one per vehicle) includes one poker hand and one barbecue lunch.

Embracing the Outdoors: Tehachapi's Trails and Gravel Rides

As the car show takes center stage, the Tehachapi Mountain Trails Association is gearing up for its own exciting event. On October 5th, the organization will host the 2024 Brewfondo Graveler, a gravel ride event that offers three different distances, each with breathtaking views of the Tehachapi Mountains and valleys. The event culminates with a celebratory party on TK Pizza's patio, providing a perfect opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to unwind and connect.The Brewfondo Graveler is not just a thrilling ride; it also serves as a fundraiser for the American Legion Post 221, ensuring that the event has a positive impact on the community. Riders can look forward to an unforgettable experience that combines the beauty of the Tehachapi landscape with the camaraderie of fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

Celebrating Oktoberfest in Stallion Springs

As the autumn season approaches, Tehachapi will be abuzz with the sights and sounds of Oktoberfest celebrations. Two events are planned in the Stallion Springs community on October 5th, offering a unique blend of German culture, food, and festivities.The Stallion Springs Community Services District will be hosting its 19th annual Oktoberfest, a fundraiser for the district's parks and recreation programs. This event will feature brats, beer, over 40 vendors, live music, and a dedicated kid zone, providing entertainment for the entire family. The local CERT team will manage the parking, and donations for parking will go towards emergency response items.Just down the road, the Stallion Springs Oktoberfest and German Car Cruise-In will be held at Papa's Place, 27821 Stallion Springs Drive. This event, which is not affiliated with the CSD's Oktoberfest, will showcase a collection of German cars, with participants meeting at the former Kmart parking lot in Tehachapi at 10 a.m. before making their way to the cruise-in location.

Celebrating the Bounty of Tehachapi: The Apple Festival

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, Tehachapi will once again celebrate its rich agricultural heritage with the annual Tehachapi Apple Festival. Scheduled for October 11-13, this three-day event will be held at multiple locations throughout the town, offering a diverse array of activities and attractions.The traditional festival, sponsored by the Greater Tehachapi Chamber of Commerce, will take place in downtown Tehachapi on Saturday and Sunday, October 12-13. Visitors can look forward to an apple pie eating contest, an apple pie baking contest, modern apple bobbing, live music, kids' games, and the ever-popular Waste Management Kidzone, complete with bounce houses. Food and craft booths, as well as the star of the show – apples – will be in abundance.Complementing the downtown festivities, a carnival will be held at the Tehachapi Rodeo Grounds and Event Center, just a mile away. Wristbands priced at will provide access to the rides, and a new addition this year is a Friday night concert featuring line-dancing and a performance by Metalshop.The Apple Festival will also showcase the popular vintage trailer show, which has expanded to two days this year. The event will be held at the Tehachapi Rodeo Grounds from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, offering a unique glimpse into the history and charm of these iconic vehicles.Adding to the excitement, the Apple Festival Rodeo and a four-man charity "calf dressing" competition will take place at the rodeo grounds on Saturday. The calf dressing competition, where teams must catch a calf, dress it in oversized clothing and accessories, and get it to the finish line, promises to be a thrilling and lighthearted event, with the winning team's chosen charity receiving ,500.As if that weren't enough, the Tehachapi Mountain Quilt Show, sponsored by the Tehachapi Mountain Quilters, will also be held during the Apple Festival weekend. The event, themed "Country Garden," will feature the work of featured artist Frosti Acord and will be open to the public on Saturday, October 12, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, October 13, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Spooktacular Celebrations: Halloween in Tehachapi

As the year draws to a close, Tehachapi will be abuzz with a variety of Halloween-themed events and activities. The Tehachapi Terror Haunted House, a beloved local tradition, will be staged at Woodward West this year, promising an even bigger and better experience. The haunted house will be open from 6 to 9 p.m. on select dates in October, including Halloween night, and will accept cash donations for the Family Life Pregnancy Center of Tehachapi.The Ghoulden Hills Trick or Treat event, previously held in the Golden Hills Community Services District parking lot, has found a new home at Meadowbrook Park, 21750 Westshore Blvd. This popular community event will feature a movie in the park, sponsored by Sim Sanitation and the Tehachapi Valley Recreation and Park District, as well as a pumpkin patch and food vendors.In downtown Tehachapi, the Downtown Tehachapi Treat Trail, organized by Funky Junk by Go2Girlz, will make a return this year. The event, which saw close to 40 local businesses participate last year, invites costumed trick-or-treaters to visit participating locations and collect candy and goodies.Rounding out the Halloween festivities, the TPOPS (Tehachapi Pops Orchestra) will present their highly anticipated Halloween Spooktacular Concert on Sunday, October 27th, at the Tehachapi ADHC (Adult Day Healthcare Center). This annual event has become a beloved tradition, offering a delightful blend of music and Halloween-themed entertainment.