By Rich Larson
Faribault’s streets will soon be gleaming with chrome and classic style as the Faribault Area Chamber of Commerce launches its 2026 Car Cruise Night series this Friday. The free, family‑friendly events take place every third Friday of the month from May through September and have become one of the community’s most anticipated summer traditions.
“This Friday is our kickoff,” said Devin Winjum, marketing director for the Faribault Chamber of Commerce, during a recent appearance on KYMN in the Morning. “We’ll be blocking off Central Avenue in historic downtown Faribault and welcoming hundreds of cars and spectators for a fun night of music, food, and community.”
The downtown cruises run May through August, with classic cars and custom vehicles lining multiple blocks of Central Avenue. What began nearly a decade ago has grown significantly, now filling about five downtown blocks and drawing an estimated 600 vehicles on peak nights. Participants travel from as far as four hours away, with attendees coming from the Twin Cities metro, Mankato, Hastings, and beyond.
Live music is a staple of each event. The May kickoff will feature Steve and Steve performing on Third Street near the Elks Club. Future dates include Triple Stitch in June and the Yeah Yeah Boys in July. August adds a special twist with an optional “lake cruise,” where drivers tour Faribault’s lakes before rolling into downtown together.
New this year, the Chamber is bringing back “Block Awards,” recognizing standout vehicles on each downtown block, with winners advancing toward a Car of the Year honor at September’s finale.
The season concludes with “Hot Rods and Harleys” in September at Faribault Harley‑Davidson, featuring expanded space, vendors, motorcycles, and a celebratory atmosphere marking the end of summer.
“With no registration required, it’s as easy as grabbing your car and cruising in,” Winjum said. “It doesn’t get much better than that.”
The car cruises will run this Friday, May 15th, June 19th, July 17th, August 21st, and September 18th. Each event is scheduled for from 6 to 9pm.
Rich Larson is the owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
