The Way to Woodward Event Thursday in Downtown Jackson

Photo courtesy Jackson Downtown Development Authority.

(August 12, 2026 7:44 PM ET) The Jackson Downtown Development Authority has announced final details and schedule for The Way to Woodward: A Shelby Shelebration, a one-night-only extravaganza bringing together legendary vehicles, racing history, live entertainment, and the spirit of community on Thursday, August 13 from 5 to 8 PM.

Presented by Southern Michigan Bank & Trust, this special event is a collaboration between Mike Sadler of Speed and Shine, Jackson Cruise-In, and The Carroll Collection. Together, these partners are creating a unique automotive experience designed to celebrate automotive performance, honor Veterans, and showcase Downtown Jackson.

“This event brings together everything that makes the automotive community special — incredible vehicles, passionate people, history, and a shared love of speed,” said Mike Sadler, owner of Speed and Shine and host of Jackson Cruise-In. “The Way to Woodward is about creating an experience that enthusiasts and families will remember while celebrating the incredible automotive culture we have right here in Jackson.”

The first 350 to registered cars will receive an event tee-shirt, poster, goodie bag and be registered for raffles every 15 minutes.

Jackson has a legacy-rich connection to Michigan’s automotive story, with generations of innovation, craftsmanship, manufacturing, and automotive passion helping shape the community’s identity.

Way to Woodward celebrates that legacy by creating a unique starting point for enthusiasts traveling toward the Woodward Dream Cruise while introducing visitors to Downtown Jackson.

Guests will experience an incredible showcase of classic and modern Mustangs, Shelby vehicles, specialty performance cars, and rare historic automobiles from The Carroll Collection.

One of the evening’s featured attractions will be the legendary race car the 1966 FORD GT40 Hero Car showcased in the award-winning film Ford v. Ferrari. This remarkable race car pays tribute to the Shelby-American racing legacy and the historic 1966 Le Mans victory that forever changed motor sports history.

In recognition of the nation’s 250th anniversary, Way to Woodward will recognize and celebrate local Veterans who share a passion for automotive history, innovation, and performance.

Veterans will receive free vehicle registration and have a dedicated location within the event where their vehicles and stories can be celebrated by the community.

Adding to the experience, the Michigan Theatre of Jackson will host a free community showing of Ford v Ferrari from 5:30–8 p.m. at 124 N. Mechanic Street, Jackson, MI 49201. The film provides the perfect backdrop to celebrate the innovation, determination, and racing history behind these legendary machines.

The evening will also feature Nitro Jen, a high-energy local classic rock band known for bringing audiences to their feet while supporting military members and community causes.

The celebration will extend throughout Downtown Jackson and Horace Blackman Park, creating a destination experience for automotive enthusiasts, families, and visitors of all ages.

Attendees can enjoy:

• Classic and modern cars, especially Mustangs, Shelby vehicles, and specialty performance cars
• Rare vintage vehicles from The Carroll Collection
• 1966 FORD GT40 race car from the movie Ford v Ferrari
• Veteran recognition activities
• JPS Marching Band – Veteran tribute
• Free showing of Ford v Ferrari at the Michigan Theatre of Jackson
• Live music from Nitro Jen
• DJ entertainment
• Unique custom trophies unlike any other event
• $50 cash prizes
• Food trucks featuring a variety of options
• Downtown restaurants, retailers, patios, and businesses welcoming visitors throughout the evening

Downtown businesses will open their doors and invite guests to explore local dining, shopping, and entertainment as part of this special celebration.

Whether you are traveling toward the Woodward Dream Cruise, a lifelong automotive enthusiast, a Veteran, or simply looking for an unforgettable community experience, The Way to Woodward Starts in Jackson.