OKABA Fall Happenings: Community, Cars, Connections

As summer winds down and Oklahoma gears up for crisp fall days, the Oklahoma Auto Body Association (OKABA) is preparing for an exciting season of community engagement, networking, professional development and its first election in October, which will mark the three-year anniversary of the organization.

The Guthrie Road Celebration: A Community Tradition

At the heart of this year’s fall happenings is one of the state’s most beloved traditions: the Guthrie Road Celebration.

On Sept. 13, Guthrie will once again transform into a hub of chrome, color and community spirit during the 42nd Annual Guthrie Road Celebration. With roots dating back to 1983, the event is the second-oldest car show in Oklahoma and remains a highlight on the state’s automotive calendar.

This year’s show will benefit Puzzle Piece Ranch, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families and children with autism. It’s a cause that resonates deeply with event organizers and attendees alike, supporting the celebration’s mission of giving back while celebrating automotive culture.

From 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., attendees can look forward to a full slate of family-friendly activities at the city park pavilion. The day kicks off with registration and continues with raffles, games, live trivia and contests for all ages. Classic car enthusiasts can admire rows of beautifully restored vehicles while families enjoy everything from splash pads and playgrounds to a hula hoop contest and frozen T-shirt challenge.

Unique hand-crafted trophies created from automotive parts remain a fan favorite, capturing the event’s spirit of creativity and craftsmanship. Car clubs also have a chance to compete for bragging rights and cash prizes, adding friendly competition to the celebration.

Volunteers and organizers of the Guthrie Road Celebration gather for a group photo.

Jessica Stegner, vice president of OKABA and one of the event’s co-organizers, said the car show has grown beyond its roots as a car enthusiast’s gathering into something that unites the entire community.

“The Guthrie Road Celebration isn’t just about cars — it’s about people,” said Stegner. “Every year, we see families, shop owners, students and longtime residents come together. That’s what makes it special — it feels like a homecoming for our community.”

A Day Full of Fun and Purpose

What makes the Guthrie Road Celebration unique is its combination of fun and philanthropy. Dozens of raffle prizes will be drawn throughout the day, culminating in a grand prize and 50/50 raffle drawing at the trophy presentation. All proceeds directly support Puzzle Piece Ranch, giving attendees the chance to make a difference while enjoying the festivities.

Food trucks, vendor booths and live music will add to the festive atmosphere, while trivia questions throughout the day keep the crowd engaged with chances to win prizes. Whether attendees are there to show off their vehicles, enjoy the park amenities, or support a charitable cause, there’s something for everyone.

Stegner believes pairing entertainment with purpose is what keeps the event thriving after more than four decades.

“When people leave this event, they don’t just remember the cars,” she said. “They remember walking past rows of classics and customs, swapping stories with fellow car lovers, and the satisfaction of knowing they contributed to a cause that matters. That’s why this show has lasted 42 years — and why it will keep going strong.”

OKABA’s October Events: Advocacy and Education

While the Guthrie Road Celebration is a highlight this fall, OKABA members also have two key dates circled on their calendars in October.

Participants enjoyed a sunny day at Cimarron National Golf Club in Guthrie, OK, during OKABA’s recent Golf Classic.

On Oct. 3, OKABA will host a free Member Social Night with Legislators at Bricktown Brewery in downtown Oklahoma City. The evening will provide shop owners and industry professionals an opportunity to connect directly with state lawmakers in a relaxed environment. With legislative issues continuing to impact the collision repair industry, the event offers an invaluable chance to build relationships and advocate for policies that strengthen Oklahoma’s automotive businesses.

The following day, Oct. 4, members can take part in a Learning Day at the Hilton Garden Inn in Oklahoma City. The featured speaker will be Mark Olson, CEO of Vehicle Collision Experts and president of Future Forensics. His session, “Unlocking the Law of Reciprocity,” will dive into practical strategies for uplifting both employees and customers, reducing turnover and fostering long-term business success.

Together, these back-to-back events highlight OKABA’s dual mission: fostering strong community ties while equipping its members with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry.

As Stegner summed it up: “Our industry is about relationships. Whether it’s through a car show that benefits a local cause or a conversation with legislators about our future, we’re stronger when we come together.”