Rare Automobiles And Planes Returning For Annual Wheels & Wings Festival

NEW MILFORD — Imagine a picturesque grass landing field nestled in the natural wooded splendor of the Berkshires. Now imagine that same field graced with hundreds of spectacular vintage automobiles and airplanes. That amazing scene will soon become a reality as Wheels & Wings again arrives at scenic Candlelight Farms Airport on Sunday, August 23.

Even in last year’s chilly temperatures, more than 1,000 excited enthusiasts turned out to get an up close and personal look at over 300 examples of the most fascinating cars ever constructed. From million dollar Ferraris and elegant American classics to ground-shaking muscle cars, the array of iconic vehicles on hand delighted visitors from all over New England and beyond.

For this year’s expanded show, event creator Black Horse Garage has once again enlisted the expert help of the Antique Automobile Club of America’s (AACA) Housatonic Valley Region chapter to help organize the festival. All gate proceeds will benefit Connecticut’s Saint Catherine Academy for Mentally Retarded Children.

Together, Black Horse Garage, AACA Housatonic Valley Region chapter and the event’s corporate sponsors are dedicated to providing enthusiasts of every age with an opportunity to view, photograph and enjoy a wide-range of fantastic vintage automobiles and aircraft. Many vintage planes will be taking off, landing and performing amazing aerobatic stunts.

“People are still talking about last year’s show and the amazingly friendly atmosphere,” commented John Buonanno, president of Black Horse Garage, who says the show received rave reviews because it brought together a variety of vehicles not usually found at other local shows.

The decision to invite the AACA HVR team in 2008 and again this year was one of both necessity and admiration.

“Our first two shows were more successful than we could have imagined and we know this year we’ll need even more reinforcements,” said Mr Buonanno. “Plus, these are the people who used to put on the Bridgewater show, and that was one of the state’s best events.”

All collector car owners are invited to bring their vehicles as there will be awards in more than 25 different categories. Gates open at 10, however exhibitors and participants should arrive by 9 am. Entry fee for vehicle owners is $10, and judging will begin promptly at 10.

Food, music and plenty of convenient parking will be available all day. Admission for spectators is $7, with children ages 12 and under free.

The August 23 event will run from 10 am to 4 pm; rain date is August 30. Candlelight Farms Airport is at 5 Green Pond Road, off Route 7 in New Milford. For more information, call 203-330-9604 or visit BlackHorseGarage.com.