More Than a Car Show: How the Kunkel Cruise-In Fuels Hope in the Fight Against ALS

By Amelia Glosson – Visit Wabash County Summer Intern – Grace College

For one unforgettable weekend each August, the rumble of classic engines echoes through the streets of Downtown Wabash as thousands of car enthusiasts, families, and supporters gather for something much bigger than a car show. They come to celebrate remarkable automobiles, honor a beloved community member, and fuel hope in the fight against ALS.

Now celebrating its 27th year in 2026, the Kunkel Cruise-In has become one of northeast Indiana’s premier automotive events. What began as a heartfelt tribute to Dave Kunkel has grown into a cherished community tradition that welcomes generations of families, passionate volunteers, local businesses, and automotive enthusiasts from across the region.

Every registration, sponsorship, raffle ticket, meal, and donation helps fund ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) research and care, proving that a shared love of classic cars can drive something even more powerful—the hope of finding a cure.

How It All Began

So, who was Dave Kunkel?

Dave was a dedicated employee at the Ford Meter Box Company who had a genuine heart for his community. In the late 1990s, he was diagnosed with ALS, and after a courageous battle, he passed away. Those who knew Dave wanted to honor his life in a meaningful and lasting way.

From that desire, the Kunkel Cruise-In was born. Dave’s good friend, Dan Harvey and several other friends from Ford Meter Box, established the event with a simple but powerful mission: every dollar raised would support ALS research. Decades later, the Cruise-In continues to bring the community together, celebrating Dave’s legacy while raising funds and awareness in the fight against ALS.

Over the years, this beloved tradition has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for ALS research. At the conclusion of the 2024 Cruise-In, the event contributed an incredible $60,000, followed by another $52,000 in 2025.

It is truly inspiring to see a community come together year after year, united by one purpose: to honor Dave’s legacy while supporting those affected by ALS and advancing the search for a cure.

Cars & Community

The Kunkel Cruise-In is one of the largest car shows around the area and regularly attracts over 400 vehicles! Thousands of car enthusiasts from all over drive down to Wabash each year to admire the wide variety of vehicles.

The event offers a multitude of activities to keep you busy over the weekend:

• 100s of restored vehicles
• A judged competition and awards
• Local food vendors
• Live music
• Door prizes and raffles

Be a Part of the Tradition

Whether you’re polishing your prized classic for the show or simply strolling through rows of chrome, horsepower, and timeless craftsmanship, the Dave Kunkel Cruise-In is about so much more than cars. It’s about people. It’s about community. And it’s about carrying forward a legacy of hope.

Every vehicle registration, raffle ticket bought, and donation made helps continue Dave Kunkel’s legacy while supporting the fight against ALS. Behind every gleaming hood and restored classic is an opportunity to make a real difference in someone’s life.

Mark your calendar for August 21–22, 2026, and join us in Downtown Wabash for a weekend filled with incredible automobiles, great food, live entertainment, and a community united by compassion. Come for the cars. Stay for the cause. Leave knowing you were part of something far bigger than a car show.