Seaside's annual hot rod and custom car event returns as Wheels & Waves Friday through Sunday, Sept. 9 through 11. Photo Seaside Downtown Development Association.

SEASIDE – Downtown Seaside continues its traditional four-day hot rod and custom car event on the weekend after Labor Day with Wheels & Waves, presented by Zig’s Street Rods Thursday through Sunday, Sept. 8 through 11.

Auto buffs arriving Thursday have several activities to choose from, including golfing at the Hot Rod Charity Golf Tournament held at Gearhart Golf Links or driving the Flashback Historic Poker Run through scenic coastal areas in Northwest Oregon. The Gathering at Dundee’s Thursday evening provides a venue to meet new and old friends, and the car show in the parking lot provides a glimpse of what’s to come in the next three days.

Friday offers another opportunity to run the Flashback Poker Run. Registration begins at noon in the Convention Center and the Seniors’ Cruz starts at 4 p.m. The official welcome party is hosted by the Seaside Downtown Development Association in the Convention Center, with Seaside restaurants providing a “Taste of Seaside” for participants. This year’s entertainment is Danny Vernon with his “Tribute to Elvis” show, which will keep everyone dancing and entertained into the late evening.

The show ‘n shine area in downtown Seaside opens for parking at 7 a.m. Saturday. Vendors are up and operating early, and the Kite Festival on the beach begins at 10 a.m. to entertain those out for a walk. The Wheels & Waves Cruz revs up at 6 p.m. Those with energy to burn will then return to the Convention Center for the Firemen’s Ball & Casino Night. Hank Snell’s Band, F.O.G., will provide old-time rock and roll, while those feeling lucky can try the casino tables and games.

On Sunday, car owners and vendors return at 7 a.m. for the last day of showing off and shopping. A nondenominational church service will be held for all those wishing to participate. The event concludes with the presentation of more than 70 awards, including the Top 10 Pick Rods and the Top 10 Pick Customs.

A raffle over the weekend will benefit Muscular Sclerosis, a pet charity of the sponsor, Zig’s Street Rods. Film crews from “The Vintage Vehicle Show” and “My Classic Car” with host Dennis Gage will be on hand to record the festivities.

Wheels & Waves is limited to pre-1962 rods and customs, and the entry fee is $35. Early registration is suggested, as the field is limited to 503 participants and is filling quickly. For information, call Flashback Promotions at (503) 717-8530, e-mail flashbac@pacifier.com or visit www.flashbackinseaside.com