In the News!

(Ontario, California – April 15, 2025) – As National Volunteer Week (April 20-26) approaches, Greater Ontario California (GOCAL) invites community members to embrace the spirit of giving back. Volunteerism is more than just an act of kindness – it is a core American value and a pillar of our democracy. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 51% of Americans ages 16 and older, or approximately 124.7 million people, contribute their time to help a neighbor.

“Volunteering is one of the most impactful ways to connect with your community,” said Michael Krouse, President and CEO of GOCAL. “It fosters a sense of belonging, opens doors to new opportunities, and plays a vital role in ensuring visitors experience the best of what our region has to offer.”

GOCAL encourages residents to consider volunteering at some of the Inland Empire’s most iconic events, including Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion and Christmas on Euclid. These events attract tens of thousands of visitors each year, contributing to Greater Ontario California’s reputation as Southern California’s fastest-growing travel destination. Volunteers serve as ambassadors, helping to create welcoming and memorable experiences for guests from around the world.

In addition to supporting major events, volunteering offers personal benefits such as developing new skills, building relationships, and even enhancing career prospects. Many companies value community service as a reflection of leadership and teamwork, making volunteer experience a strong addition to a resume. Furthermore, studies show that acts of service boost overall well-being and happiness, creating a positive impact on both the individual and the community.

Those interested in volunteering for one of GOCAL’s Signature Events can sign up at GOCALevents.org. Whether assisting with event logistics, greeting attendees, or supporting local initiatives, volunteers play a crucial role in strengthening the community.

Celebrate National Volunteer Week by giving back, because when we come together, we all thrive.

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Classic car registration now open for Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion, with VIP Packages available

(ONTARIO, California, March 15, 2025) – Online registration is now open for one of the region’s premier annual events, the 12^th Anniversary Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion, September 19 and 20 along historic Euclid Avenue in downtown Ontario.

Classic car owners can take advantage of the showcase event’s new user-friendly website to choose from one of two registration options, including, again this year, a VIP Package that includes two passes, a Friday buffet dinner, Saturday lunch and dinner in the VIP Hospitality area, T-shirts and a reserved parking area. Vehicles from 1988 and earlier are eligible.

Powered by Greater Ontario California (GOCAL), Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion is one of the region’s most popular events, attracting more than 1,000 classic cars and drawing more than 150,000 attendees annually.

“We look forward to welcoming classic car owners, and auto enthusiasts plus residents, guests, and visitors ready to enjoy this premiere annual event. Enjoy two days of classic cars cruisin’ historic Euclid Avenue, contests, live entertainment, fabulous food, and fun for the entire family!” said Michael Krouse, President & CEO of GOCAL.

ROUTE 66 CRUISIN’ REUNION CLASSIC CAR REGISTRATION OPTIONS

VIP/HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE PACKAGE $250.00

• One Vehicle Admission for both days to Display and Cruise the Route
• A reserved classic car parking area near the VIP Club to park your vehicle
• Your Classic Car will be eligible for our judged Awards
• 2 VIP passes (non-transferrable wristbands for the 2-day event) which includes:
  • 4 bar drinks tickets per wristband; includes complimentary sodas, water and juices
  • Friday Buffet Dinner
  • Saturday Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner including snacks between meals
  • The VIP Club is a Premium elevated lounge viewing area on the Euclid Avenue Median
  • Goodie bag with souvenir map, sponsor goodies and more!
  • Two (2) Official Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion 2025 Participant T-Shirts
  • One (1) Route 66 Cruisin' Reunion Commemorative poster
  • One (1) Commemorative License Plate & Magnet

Regular Vehicle Registration $60.00

• Vehicle Admission for both days to Display and Cruise the Route
• Goodie bag with souvenir map, sponsor goodies, and more!
  • One (1) Official Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion 2025 Participant T-Shirt
  • One (1) Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion Commemorative poster
  • One (1) Commemorative License Plate
  • One (1) Commemorative Magnet

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ROUTE 66 CRUISIN REUNION

Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion®, a 501-(c3) organization, created by Greater Ontario California (GOCAL), is a Southern California ultimate weekend celebration of America’s love affair with the automobile and its world-famous highway, Route 66. Two days of cruisin’, contests, live entertainment, fabulous food and revelry make it one of the best events of its kind. Held annually each September along historic, tree-shaded Euclid Avenue in Ontario, California, Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion is where classic cruisers, convertibles, hot rods, and wicked Woodies fuel a jam-packed jamboree. Click here for details.

GREATER ONTARIO CALIFORNIA

Greater Ontario California (GOCAL) is the official destination marketing organization to promote the cities of Ontario and Rancho Cucamonga, California to visitors nationally and internationally. As destination experts we provide leisure, meeting groups and meeting professionals with an unbiased, comprehensive resource when booking a tour, convention, meeting or event within the cities of Ontario and Rancho Cucamonga, California. Ideal for leisure and business travel, the region boasts scenic mountains, deserts, vineyards and metropolitan areas that are both historic and cosmopolitan in character. Under the umbrella of the Greater Ontario California is the California Welcome Center and several Signature Events to support the overall mission to drive visitors to the region, stimulating economic growth. GOCAL provides the necessary destination support tools to execute a successful experience. Visit www.GO-CAL.org

That’s a wrap: Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion attracts more than 100,000 to downtown Ontario, California

(ONTARIO, California, October 1, 2024) – More than a quarter-million visitors attended the 11^th Annual Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion in Downtown Ontario, September 20-21, making this year’s event the most popular and successful ever.

The event, presented by GOCAL (Greater Ontario California), attracted visitors from Southern California and beyond for a spirited weekend of classic cars, food, music and family fun. More than 1,100 hot rods and vintage automobiles lined the streets of Ontario during the two-day celebration of America’s most famous roadway.

“Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion has become one of Southern California’s premier events, and this year’s certainly lived up to that billing. We want to thank all of our partners, our entertainers and vendors, and, of course, our visitors and participants for making this the best Cruisin’ Reunion ever,” said Michael Krouse, President and CEO of GOCAL.

Enthusiasm for the 2024 Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion was borne out in a survey of attendees, which showed that 98% probably or definitely will participate again next year, while the same number – 98% – are very likely to tell others about the event. More than four in 10 were first-time attendees.

It was a hit with non-attendees as well. According to GOCAL’s audience metrics, Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion generated more than 20 million digital media impressions and earned-media audience reach of more than 30 million.

In addition to classic cars as far as the eye can see, highlights of this year’s event included headlining performances by the classic rock band Grand Funk Railroad and Yacht Rock favorites Ambrosia.

A highly coveted part of every Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion are the individual awards. This year’s honorees included Michael Kendall, Best of Show winner for his 1960 Cadillac Convertible, and Craig Pardue, the Mayor’s Choice Award for his 1951 Ford Crestline. For a complete list of award winners, please visit our website.

GOCAL also would like to thank the event sponsors: Stater Bros. Markets, Raising Canes, OmniTrans, Mark Christopher Auto Center, Petersen Automotive Museum, the City of Ontario and the Ontario Convention Center.