One of the most popular and long-running events in the Farmington Valley area is the Simsbury Fly-In, Car Show, and Food Truck Festival. It has become a truly regional show, attracting spectators and participants from all around New England, even as far away as Virginia and Upstate New York.
It’s like a unique kind of country fair, built around displays of more than seven hundred beautiful airplanes and cars of virtually every kind and vintage, with at least one hundred fifty participating businesses on display, and a major food truck gathering.
A major attraction this year will be a display, demonstration flight, and seminar featuring a brand new all-electric powered airplane, the Pipestrel Electro. It is 100% battery powered, with no gas engine. As everyone knows, the auto industry is converting to hybrid power and all-electric power. That trend is now beginning in aviation as batteries are becoming lighter. This display is a real first in Connecticut.
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The Fly-In part of the show is just what that term implies. Airplanes fly in and are put on display so spectators can see them up close and talk with their proud owners. Spectators can expect to see a wide range of types: antiques, homebuilt airplanes, former military aircraft, helicopters, and more. This is the largest Fly-In in the Northeastern U.S.
It’s also one of the largest car shows in New England. Unlike many such events, displays are not limited to any specific car brand or age. It would not be unusual to see a Stutz Bearcat, an old Studebaker, a million-dollar new Ferrari, or even vehicles such as tractors, motorcycles, restored military vehicles, and hot rods.
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For those who love great food, this is the place to be. At least twenty food trucks will offer menus featuring breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and desserts. This feature has become so popular that the first day of the event will be dedicated solely to food trucks.
The show is designed to appeal to the entire family. There is lots to do and see, including live music, the Lifestar helicopter, airplane and helicopter rides, a Kaman helicopter firefighting demonstration, free seminar presentations, or just sitting on the grass and watching the airplanes and cars come and go. And, of course, great things to eat.
The show dates this year are September 24 and 25 at Simsbury Airport, 94 Wolcott Rd. in Simsbury. Please note that September 24 will be food trucks only, from 11 AM to 6 PM. September 25 will be the full event, with food trucks returning again, from 8 AM to 5 PM.
There is no admission cost, but donations are gratefully accepted to help keep Simsbury Airport in operation. Parking is available at $15 to benefit the Boy Scouts. Handicapped parking is provided, along with handicapped toilet facilities. Pets on leashes are welcome, and there will be a watering station for them.
The event website is www.simsburyflyin.com, where you can find full event details, directions, contact information and more.
This is a really wonderful family event, now in its forty second year. Come on out and see the fun on a New England Fall day.
