Posted on Fri, Aug. 20, 2010

Spectators young and old gathered in downtown Atascadero on Friday to watch the gleam of brightly colored hot rods and other vintage models coast by on a closed route for the city’s annual Hot El Camino Cruise Nite.

“Classic cars have a huge fan following,” said Steve Martin of the Atascadero Main Street group. “I think people like the nostalgia attached to these vehicles, plus the cars are wonderfully restored and beautiful to see.”

The Friday night show, now in its 18th year, also featured a free dance in the downtown area with music provided by The Martin Paris Band.

The cruise followed El Camino Real from Curbaril Avenue to Traffic Way.

— Tonya Strickland