Kruise draws thousands to downtown
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The Kruise of Klamath returned to downtown Klamath Falls on Saturday to the delight of thousands. Above a passenger uses her mobile device to record spectators as her and the driver cruise Main. (Image: Anonda Parsons, Klamath Falls News)
KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. - The sun and cars were shining bright Saturday in downtown Klamath Falls for the annual Kruise of Klamath. Thousands in attendance came to see nearly 400 unique and classic cars on display.
The temps were hot, the cars were cool as the scent of vendor food and the sound oldies filled the air.
“It is very refreshing,” said Glenda Stilwell board member for the Kruise of Klamath. “Everyone is excited and having a great time today.”
During the Kruise’s main show “n” shine, owners lined their cars on Main between 4th & 11th streets. Some traveled from as far as Southern California and Idaho for the event.
“Getting them all in there was a close call,” said Linda Tepper secretary & treasurer for the Kruise of Klamath. “The furthest is still being tallied,” she added.
As the afternoon blistering sun gave way to some cooler evening shade, downtown became more alive for the evening drag on the downtown loop. The cooler reprieve from the hot afternoon brought more families downtown - just as the cars roared to life with their powerful engines echoing off buildings.
“[My favorite part is] probably the joy you see on people's faces when they get to show off a little bit,” said Larry Ross board member for Kruise of Klamath. “Plus, the thing that is the most personally rewarding thing for me is that the money that is raised all stays in our community and goes to good causes.”
Historically, the Kruise has been held at Moore Park. However, 2022 marks the second straight year of the main portion of the event being held downtown.
“Some people love it and some people hate it and vice versa,” said Tepper. “Those that love it downtown did not like it much at Moore Park.”
Tepper added, “What we do know is local businesses really benefit from having the event on Main Street. And with our spectators, it seems much easier to access with the extra public parking. Overall, the response was very favorable which is why we are doing it here again this year.”
As the evening drew to a close, the people of Klamath Falls are left with memories of the day that include time with friends and family, tasty food, and the cars that remind us of where we have been.
