The inaugural Terminal Takeover, held March 22-23, 2024, proved to be a fantastic start for this unique automotive event in Greenville, where vehicle enthusiasts came together to showcase their builds, enjoy games, and support a great cause. Despite early weather concerns, the skies cleared, and a large turnout brought everything from mini trucks and classic cars to tuners, lifted golf carts, and audio builds to the venue. With its lively atmosphere and diverse activities, Terminal Takeover’s first year set the foundation for a growing tradition in the car show circuit.
Friday Night BBQ and Auction with DJ Maze
Terminal Takeover kicked off Friday night with a BBQ plate dinner for $20, where attendees enjoyed delicious food, a charity auction, and entertainment from DJ Maze. The relaxed Friday evening gave participants a chance to connect, browse early vehicle arrivals, and bid on auction items. This opening night set a welcoming tone for the main event, building excitement for the full day of activities on Saturday.
Saturday’s Main Event: Show, Contests, and Fun
The show officially opened Saturday at 8 AM, welcoming a maximum of 250 vehicle entries across a variety of classes, including trucks, mini trucks, SUVs, sport utility vehicles, and under-construction builds. Entry fees were $50, while spectators aged 15 and older enjoyed the show for just $5, with free admission for children under 15. The range of vehicle classes allowed participants to compete for prizes, with class categories selected on the day of the show based on vehicle types and entries.
Adding to the excitement, Terminal Takeover featured interactive games and contests, creating a family-friendly experience. The highlight was the sumo wrestling contest, where “Body Drop Willy” took home the wrestling belt in an unforgettable showdown. The crowd also enjoyed a snack-eating contest, where participants raced to finish six Little Debbie snacks as fast as possible, adding a unique and playful touch to the event’s competitive spirit.
A Cause-Driven Event Supporting the Greenville Community
Terminal Takeover was not only about cars and fun but also had a strong community focus. A portion of the proceeds from the event supported Greenville’s “Shop with a Cop” program, which provides holiday gifts and essentials for local children. This cause-driven approach connected the automotive community with local charitable efforts, adding a meaningful layer to the event’s success.
Planning for 2025: Room to Grow and Build on Success
With an impressive turnout and a day packed with activities, Terminal Takeover’s inaugural year showcased its potential as a major event on the car show calendar. The organizers are already making plans for the 2025 edition, looking to expand on the success and enhance the experience with even more activities and opportunities for attendees.
For an event in its first year, Terminal Takeover 2024 exceeded expectations, creating an inviting space for car enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds. It brought together the automotive community, supported a worthy cause, and laid the groundwork for a bright future. As the event grows, Terminal Takeover is poised to become a beloved annual tradition, uniting vehicle enthusiasts and families for a weekend of cars, fun, and camaraderie.
Photos by: Chris Gosda