Driving Community Through Cars in Canada's 1000 Islands
By Jay Kana | Published May 20th, 2026
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Photography provided by the Gananoque Lions Club.
Proudly celebrating their 28th year, the Gananoque Car Show (GCS) returns for 2026 on June 13th.
Known as the “Cruise In,” the GCS was initially put in motion in 1997 as the “Gananoque Goes Graffiti” show with nearly 50 vehicles meeting at a local public school. From there, the Gananoque Lions club hosted a barbecue for the first few years and eventually sponsored the event in 2007.
The show was held in various locations, including the waterfront and town hall area.
Now, due to increased growth and popularity, the famous event is held at the the Lou Jefferies Community Centre at 600 King Street.
Cool classic cars from the 2025 Gananoque Car Show.
The show was originally a judged event and depending on weather conditions, there would be between 80 to 140 entries.
Over the past few years, it’s become a “cruise in” and this year, they’ll expect approximately 150 vehicles, from classics to modern cars.
What is a “cruise in” exactly? That’s an excellent question!
Organizer Rob Janke says “I would describe a cruise in as a social automotive event for car, trucks, motorcycles and other vehicles to meet at a designated location. Our cruise in has had a variety of vehicles attend including such one-offs as a stock cars, dragsters, army vehicles, and modified lawnmower.”
This isn’t a typical classic car show; the GCS welcomes all cars, regardless of model year.
Registration fees have made it possible to make donations to Lions causes including hunger (local food banks), child cancer (KGH, Toronto sick kids, Ottawa CHEO) and eyesight.
This year, all vehicle registration proceeds will be going to the Lions Foundations of Canada Dog Guides and Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides.
Dozens upon dozens of vehicles from various manufacturers, including both domestics and imports will be present this year.
Hoods are up and community spirit is high at the Gananoque Car Show.
Prizes, a 50/50 draw, food and beverages for sale and a true sense of community will be part of the event this year.
Plus, organizers have asked for volunteers from the high school to assist with vehicle parking and the food tent, which is a great way to be involved.
Janke says “Personally, as a Lions member, I enjoy the camaraderie of our members hosting the event, and that this fund raiser returns money to the community. I enjoy seeing many unique vehicles and meeting and talking with the owners.”
The Gananoque Car Show showcases dozens of various vehicles.
Carrying on with the community theme, The Gananoque Lions 1000 Island Cruise In has been privileged to have Tourism 1000 Islands (Thousand Islands Accommodation Partners) provide sponsorship for nearly 30 years.
The same long-term support can be said for Gananoque Chevrolet Buick GMC.
Newer sponsors include Shoppers Drug Mart, Tim Hortons , Canadian Tire, NAPA auto parts , Guardian Drugs, Runnings Auto Service, Snap On Tools, 1000 Islands Guardian Drugs, Home Hardware, Mc Dougall Insurance, P38 Energy, The Johnson Wealth Group CIBC Wood Gundy and Easton Auto Sales.