If you’ve spent any time on University Avenue in Minneapolis – Saint Paul on a Saturday night prior to 2011 you’ve undoubtedly seen one of the best displays of Hot Rod’s on the street around. This group of car nuts had been gathering at the iconic Porky’s drive in since shortly after it’s opening in 1953 until Porky’s closed in April of 2011. The car’s have drifted from spot to spot after Porky’s closed and University was torn up to build the Green Line Light Rail system, ultimately ending up in a fusion of places.
Hot Rodders Gather at the Har-Mar Mall
Early in the night (7-10:30) the group gathers at the Har-Mar Mall in Saint Paul, parking in the back rows so as not to disturb the retailers. Despite having more horsepower than the average car dealer sitting around the group says they rarely catch flak from police, adding “We’re here to get together and have fun, not be idiots, so we don’t do anything that causes problems”. Once the mall shuts down, security forces the party to move to a local Hardee’s, where the group says they’re welcome in the later hours of the night.
The selection of cars varies on any given night, but expect to see everything from stock time-machines, to all out drag-cars with slicks. Classic cars dominate but there are a few examples of modern muscle sprinkled into the mix to keep things interesting. Along with the cars you’ll get the opportunity to meet their owners who are the real reason to go. One owner I spoke to said he’s been coming to this get together since he was too young to drive hitching rides in other people’s cars. Hot rodders are usually eager to tell you about their ride, and talk about the hobby in general and this Midwest flavor is one friendly bunch of people.
Swing through the Har-Mar mall and see some cool cars, and cool people on any given Saturday night in Minneapolis – Saint Paul and you’ll quickly understand why Hot Rodding culture is stronger than ever.
