I’ve noticed that each summer around this time, just about every car dealer in Spearfish – regardless of franchise – finds a way to have at least one sleek, shiny Chevy Corvette prominently for sale on their lot. Just in time for the annual Black Hills Corvette Classic that brings nearly 500 Corvettes rolling into town.

The 39th annual Corvette Classic is this weekend, July 15-17 in and around Spearfish. Last night on my way home, I saw a couple of lone Vettes – the early arrivals – parked around town. They kind of reminded me of those solitary bison bulls you see down in Custer State Park – all alone and waiting for the rest of the herd to come their way. But, I digress.

The majority of the Corvettes will come cruising into town mid to late afternoon tomorrow, July 15. Over the course of the three-day rally, the Corvette enthusiasts will take part in guided driving tours around the Black Hills, drag racing, a poker run throughout the region, wine tasting, concerts and more.

Most of the activities are for registered attendees only, but don’t let that fool you – if you’re in the Black Hills this weekend, you’ll see plenty of Corvettes out and about taking advantage of the scenic, spiraling roads in the region.

The main opportunity for the public to check out the classy cars will be on Friday evening, July 16, in downtown Spearfish. Main Street will be blocked off to general traffic and will literally be transformed into ‘Vette Street USA’ for a few hours. The Corvettes will line the street downtown from 6-9:30 p.m for a public show & shine and people’s choice award contest.

Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve thought Corvettes were pretty cool. If you’re anything like me in that way, Friday night’s downtown event will be like a playground for you – without the climbing and dirt and touching, of course.

It’s going to be a busy weekend in Spearfish with the Corvette Classic going on and the Festival in the Park happening just a few blocks away. Lots of great events, lots of great people – all in one great place!