The651.com

Each summer the State Fair Grounds takes it back to the era of malt shops, poodle skirts, and black leather jackets with the annual Back to the ’50s extravaganza. But make no mistake, this ain’t your momma’s sock hop. Back to the ’50s is all about classic cars and the culture that goes along with them. Collectors of all stripes convene for this huge auto show-off to buy, trade, sell, and of course, admire well-maintained 1950s rides.

While the die-hards spend their time swappin’ stories and talking up their crown jewel autos to fans, the event is a fantastic day excursion for aficionados and families alike. Peruse the sprawling grounds and peep everything from muscle cars and hot rods to dreamy, ice cream colored classics that wouldn’t be out of place at a drive-in movie theater. Check out the Cruise-N-Art Craft Fair, shop numerous vendors shilling everything from clothing to memorabilia, or sign your kids up for activities like coloring contests, tractor pulls and more. Eat tasty fried food then take a siesta from all that walking around with live music from South Dakota’s PowerPlay and Duluth cover band The Shackshakers, who will entertain with toe-tappin’ ’50s favorites. And for the kiddies, “Imaginick” a.k.a. Nick Bretz will perform magic tricks, juggling, yo-yo tricks and more.

Oh, and ladies: fear not! If you’re not into car talk, the Dairy Building will be bustling with girly activities to keep you busy. Treat yourself to a little relaxation and beautification at the Aveda Pampering Clinic, score a sweet swag bag, check in with the CJ Banks fashion consultants, taste some truffles and cookies, meet author Janet Izzo and more.

Out of towners can register for camp ground spots or at area hotels through the website. Admission is $10 (free for kids under 12 when accompanied by an adult). $8 Discount tickets are available at O’Reilly Auto Part Store. The event runs from 7am-9:30pm Friday, June 18th; 7am-10pm Saturday, June 19th; 6am-1pm, Sunday June 20th.

The State Fair Grounds are located at 1265 Snelling Avenue N. in St. Paul. For more info on Back to the ’50s visit www.msra.com.