Java, jubilation and even a classic Jaguar or two will return to Canal Drive later this month when Winton-Ireland, Strom and Green Insurance Agency hosts its 8th Annual Cars and Coffee event.

Since 2013, the Turlock business has crafted a culture of smooth rides coupled with crisp, morning air and a cup of joe in its very own parking lot — a tradition which has grown from just over 30 cars in its first year to now hosting more than quadruple that number. 

“As an agency, we really value relationships with clients and this is one of many different ways we try to bring our clients together,” WIS&G Insurance Broker Jeremy Benjamin said. “We celebrate what they like and what they love, and cars are one of those things.”

WIS&G was originally approached by Hagerty Collector Car Insurance (who helps sponsor the event) about hosting the first Cars and Coffee event years ago because they had numerous car collectors insuring their automobiles through the company. Benjamin, a car enthusiast himself, has spearheaded the project since, but it was put on hold last fall due to COVID.

The event sees WIS&G work with the City of Turlock to shut down Mitchell Avenue, utilizing the street’s space, their own parking lot and lawn to this year feature 135 classic cars. This year, the agency is providing hand-washing and hand sanitizer stations for attendees, who are treated to breakfast sandwiches and, of course, coffee. 

The event is a car lover’s paradise, featuring everything from modern 2021 cars to those from the early 1900s, including a Ford Model T. Additionally, a group of impressive Ford Mustangs will be front and center for everyone to see. Community members will also be able to read about each car’s story.

“The owners of these cars take a lot of pride in them. There's a mix and most of them are classic collectors, but there's going to be something here for everyone. I would guarantee that,” Benjamin said. 

This year’s event will also feature student judges from Turlock High School students in the Kitchens for Change club, which aims to help fight hunger in the community by partnering with local restaurants. Cars and Coffee sheds light on worthy causes each year with its judges, Benjamin said, with past panels including the Turlock Fire Department and Relay for Life.

“Our goal is to inform and educate people about insurance and the community,” Benjamin said. “We try to do it on a scale of fun and informative, and getting people together is on the fun side.” 

The 8th Annual Cars and Coffee event will take place from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Oct. 23 at Winton-Ireland, Strom and Green Insurance Agency, 627 E. Canal Dr. 

Benjamin said WIS&G still has about 10 spots open for those who would like to show off their classic ride in the car show. You can keep up with the latest news through the event’s Instagram account, @wisgcarsandcoffee, or register for the event at www.wisgcarsandcoffee.com