By Gary S. Hatrick
The Laker Correspondent
ZEPHYRHILLS — A slow economy didn’t stop an estimated 20,000 people from coming out, or cars from selling, at the 25th annual Fall Auto Fest at Festival Park in Zephyrhills.
“Everything went very well. We had a record crowd for the November show and overall we were very pleased. In spite of the economy — we grew,” said Mike Sierra, whose family owns Festival Park and the Auto Fest
“We were right at $2.5 million. We had a ’55 Chevy that sold for $78,000, and with the premium it came to $82,680, which is a pretty big number,” Sierra continued.
Before the ailing economy began to curtail consumer spending, Sierra said some cars might have sold for $100,000 or more.
But the car auction industry has adjusted, Sierra said.
“Cars are selling for less money, but they’re selling, and we’re pleased about that,” he said.
With the exception of some drizzling rain on the morning of Nov. 12, the Fall Auto Fest enjoyed good weather, which Sierra accounts for the record crowds on Nov. 13 and 14.
He said he believes the poor economy contributed to this year’s increased gate because people are looking for affordable things to do close to home. Other recent outdoor events, such as the San Antonio Rattlesnake Festival and the Pasco County Bug Jam, also reported record crowds.
Shows like the Fall Auto Fest give a boost to the local economy. Restaurants, hotels and retail establishments enjoy a larger customer base during these events.
Kurth Sombutmai, owner of the Two-Minute Restaurant down the road from Festival Park, confirmed the business increase.
“We are really busy on those days — really busy,” he said.
And it’s not just nearby businesses that benefit.
“We get a little pop on that stuff so there’s definitely a difference,” said Rod Lincoln, of Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q, located on the other side of Zephyrhills.
Georgia Downey, manager of Microtel Inn and Suites, said that room reservations increase during such events as well.
Plans for the Winter Auto Fest on the fourth weekend in February are well underway, Sierra said. Vendors began reserving space at the Fall Auto Fest.
“We’ve been growing through the years and each year we get a little bit bigger and a little bit stronger. We’re going to be there good or bad. I’m just gratified that it was good,” Sierra said.
For more information, visit zephyrhillsauction.com.
