Cruisin’ the ‘Ville is returning to Steelville, rain or shine, for its second year starting at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 9 on Main Street. The car cruise-in raises money for St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital.

The fundraiser was started by Steelville residents Blaine and Renee Parrett. After Renee Parrett lost her mom to pancreatic cancer 20 years ago, the family began donating money to the American Cancer Society and St. Jude.

Last year, they decided to take their efforts a step further and raise the funds through a cruise-in, and Cruisin’ the ‘Ville was born. Their fundraising, the Blue Angels, honors Renee Parrett’s parents, Bill and Doris Blue.

In its first year, the event had 58 registered cars. This year, they’re expecting around 100 cars, with people traveling from as far as Indiana and Illinois. Multiple local car clubs will be in attendance.

“The response that we have had to it has been phenomenal,” Parrett said. “We had no idea that we could do as well as we did last year.”

Anyone looking to participate must register their car at the booth set up at The Main Deck on the day of the event. Registration will open at 8 a.m. for those looking to get set up early. All proceeds collected from registration will be donated to St. Jude.

Live music will be played at The Main Deck. Don Hayes, a country artist, is playing at 11 a.m. and Night Shift, a classic rock band, is playing at 2 p.m. 

Edg-Clif Winery, Heritage Creation and Lisa’s Luxurious Scents will have vendor booths set up and there will be food trucks on site for attendees to enjoy while checking out the cars. Cruisin’ the ‘Ville t-shirts with this year’s featured car, a Chevrolet Chevelle, will also be available for purchase.

“Downtown Steelville, with the old buildings, is a great backdrop for old vintage vehicles,” Parrett said.

Aside from providing a fun event for car enthusiasts, the Parretts also hope for the cruise-in to help support local businesses in Steelville.

“My fundraising in the years past has always kind of had a dual purpose,” Parrett said. “We raise money for the charity at hand, but it’s also about bringing people together. So the car cruise-in serves not only our charity, but it serves our community.”