It’s time to get Lost in the ‘50s
By Damen Rodriguez
Each spring in Sandpoint, time takes a captivating turn. Enthusiasts of all ages embark on a journey through the portals of yesteryears, as Sandpoint rolls out the red carpet for its iconic Lost in the ‘50s event. This annual extravaganza, now etched in the town's cultural fabric, offers a delightful trip down memory lane while igniting a spark of nostalgia in the hearts of attendees.From the gleaming chrome of vintage automobiles to the infectious tunes of rock 'n' roll echoing through the streets, Lost in the ‘50s transforms Sandpoint into a vibrant tapestry of retro charm. Classic cars, meticulously restored to their former glory, line the streets, showcasing the timeless elegance and craftsmanship of an era long gone. Each vehicle tells a story, a testament to the passion and dedication of its owner, preserving a slice of Americana for future generations to admire.
As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the festivities, the town comes alive with a kaleidoscope of activities. Music aficionados groove to the rhythm of live bands belting out chart-toppers from the 1950s, transporting listeners to an era where Elvis Presley reigned supreme and jukeboxes were the epitome of cool. Couples twirl across dance floors, their movements synchronized to the infectious beat of rockabilly and doo-wop, reminiscent of sock hops and prom nights of decades past.
But it's not just about the music and the cars; Lost in the ‘50s is a celebration of community spirit and camaraderie. Families gather while swapping stories and forging new friendships. The laughter of children mingles with the chatter of elders, bridging generational gaps and fostering a sense of belonging that transcends time. For many attendees, the highlight of the event lies in the elaborate costume parade, where participants don their best retro attire, channeling the fashion trends of the 1950s with flair and panache. From poodle skirts to leather jackets, cat-eye glasses to pompadour hairstyles, each ensemble is a nod to an iconic era marked by its distinct sense of style and sophistication. The streets become a runway of nostalgia, as spectators marvel at the creativity and attention to detail displayed by the participants.
Amidst the festivities, one cannot help but marvel at the dedication of the organizers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the success of the event. Their passion for preserving the cultural heritage shines through in every aspect of the celebration, from the meticulously curated vintage décor to the lineup of entertainment that pays homage to the era's icons. The townspeople too are dedicated; giddily assembling their themed attire, waxing their bumpers and dancing to tunes with a swagger of yesteryear.
Always held the third weekend in May, the 2024 event kicks off Friday, May 17, with the Vintage Car Parade, followed by the Street Dance, closing out the night with live music at the Bonner County Fairgrounds. Continue to step back in time Saturday, May 18, as you enjoy the Car Show, with another fantastic evening of music at the fairgrounds.
From the moment the first gleaming classic car rolls onto the streets to the final notes of a rock 'n' roll anthem fade into the night, Lost in the ‘50s captivates the imagination and stirs the soul. It's a celebration that transcends time, inviting participants to embrace the past while creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Join the community with another edition of Lost in the ‘50s. In a world that often seems fixated on the future, events like these offer a precious opportunity to pause, reflect and revel in the timeless treasures of the past. And in Sandpoint, where the mountains meet the lake and history dances with the present, Lost in the ‘50s is more than just an event — it's a journey back in time, a celebration of nostalgia, and a testament to the enduring spirit of a community united by its love for all things retro.
2024 Event LineupFriday, May 17
• Vintage Car Parade, 6pmTake in the sights and sounds of these classic cars in action, as they parade through downtown Sandpoint (looping first east down Church Street then north up First Avenue and back west up Cedar Street). Wanting to participate? All vintage and classic cars are welcome. Cars need to be at the Sandpoint High School parking lot before 5pm.
• Street Dance (immediately following the parade)Downtown between Second and Third Avenue on Main Street (by Jeff Jones Square), be taken back to the days when vinyl was the disc jockey's best friend and music rocked your soul.
• Show & Dance, 7:30pmThe hit-making machine known as Gary Lewis and the Playboys will light up the stage and dance floor and, of course, the yearly favorite Lost in the '50s house band Rocky and the Rollers. Doors open at 6:30pm. Saturday, May 18
• Car Show, 9:30am to 3:45pmDowntown will be bursting with hot rods and classics on First and Cedar, Main, Second and Third. The award ceremony will follow at the corner of First and Cedar in front of the Cedar Street Bridge. To enter the car show, pre-registration is required and a fee of $45.
• Show & Dance, 7:30pm
Featuring Mitch Ryder & the Detroit Wheels, Peter Rivera & Celebrate, the best band in the land Rocky and the Rollers, and MC Al Brady. Doors open at 6:30pm.
Additional concert information: Tickets are $55 and can be purchased at Second Avenue Pizza (215 South Second Avenue), by calling 208.265.5678 (if no one answers, leave a message) or emailing Lost50s@sandpoint.net. Must be 21 and older to attend.
For more information about the 2024 Lost in the '50s, visit Sandpoint.org/lostin50s and Facebook.com/lost50s.
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