National Corvette Homecoming facts for kids

The National Corvette Homecoming is a yearly celebration for the Chevrolet Corvette, America's famous sports car. It takes place in Bowling Green, Kentucky. This event started in 1981. Two Corvette fans, Tom Hill and Sam Hall, created it. They wanted to celebrate the Corvette's move to the Bowling Green Assembly Plant. This plant is now the only place where Corvettes are made. The Homecoming happens in the summer. It features both old (vintage) and new (modern) Corvettes. Owners and special sellers can meet and share ideas. All types of Corvettes are welcome, even custom ones.

What Happens at the Corvette Homecoming?

The National Corvette Homecoming is full of exciting activities. You can see many different Corvettes. There are also chances to learn more about these cool cars.

Shows and Competitions

The event has many judged shows. Cars compete to win awards. There is a special show called Sans Pareil, which means "without equal." In 2014, a new group was added called The Originals. Cars in this group must be at least 30 years old. They also need to be 80% original, meaning not too many changes.

Fun Activities and Learning

You can find special parts and products for Corvettes. There's a fun road tour for Corvettes. A "car corral" lets people buy and sell cars. The event also has parties and live music. Experts give talks to help you learn more about Corvettes. Other classic cars, like muscle cars and antiques, are also welcome.

Special Guests: Grand Marshals

Each year, the National Corvette Homecoming invites a special guest. This person is called a Grand Marshal. They are usually important people in the Corvette world.

• In 2008, David Burroughs was the first Grand Marshal. He was the CEO of Bloomington Gold, another big car event.
• In 2009, Wil Cooksey became the Grand Marshal. He was the plant manager at the Bowling Green Assembly Plant for a long time.
• In 2010, Joe Spielman was the Grand Marshal. He was a top manager at GM. Many people say he "saved the Corvette."
• In 2011, Lance Miller was the Grand Marshal. He helps run Carlisle Events, another large car show. This year was special because it was the 30th anniversary of the Homecoming. The Cadillac XLR, which was also built in Bowling Green, was welcomed. A special display showed "The Iconic 30." These were Corvettes from each year between 1981 and 2011.

Other Exciting Events

The National Corvette Homecoming sometimes partners with other groups. This brings even more fun and unique experiences.

• In 2008, the Homecoming worked with the American Red Cross. They promoted "Vettetastic 2008." This was an art project and fundraiser.
• In 2012, the ICCC (International Council of Corvette Clubs) held its yearly meeting at the Homecoming. The Grand Sport Owners Registry also brought many rare Corvettes to show. There was a classic car auction. Guests could also go to a Bowling Green Hot Rods baseball game. The Hot Rods are a team linked to the Tampa Bay Rays.
• In 2013, Barry Meguiar was the Grand Marshal. He hosts the Car Crazy TV show. He also runs Meguiar's Car Care Products.
• In 2014, Kevin Mackay was the Grand Marshal. He owns Corvette Repair INC. He is known for restoring old Corvettes.
• In 2015, Mike Yager was the Grand Marshal. He is a big supporter of Mid-American Motorworks.

Today, Joe Pruitt owns and organizes the National Corvette Homecoming. The National Corvette Museum also helps with some of the planning.