Last Saturday evening, a group of friends, old and new, gathered around vehicles, also old and new, hoods ajar, sharing their automotive passions and laughter. Amongst them, a game of cornhole temporarily sat idle as more and more vehicles pulled in and parked. Children giggled and pointed. Entire families joined in lively conversations, catching up on events missed during their winter hiatus. Fortunately for all, Bristow Nights resumed its twice monthly gatherings that evening.
In previous years, the local area car enthusiasts met every other Friday evening in the east end of the Tractor Supply parking lot. This year, Bristow Nights organizer Chris Miles noted the group will meet the first and third Saturdays of each month—weather permitting— to allow more people to participate.
A few years ago, Chris Miles and one of his cousins created Bristow Nights. Their goal was to offer a family-friendly event for anyone with a love and joy of automobiles to show off their cars, share tips and conversation, and perhaps enjoy a few outdoor games as well. Anyone is welcome to attend. Unlike formal car shows, no one wins any awards because no one is competing. However, he smiled and lightly chuckled that they do hold a social media competition. Members may post a photo of their vehicle, and whichever photo receives the most likes becomes the group’s profile photo.
Although the group most recently met in the eastern end of the Tractor Supply parking lot, they hope to find a new location with less heat-radiating asphalt before summer arrives. For now, Bristow Nights meets around 6 p.m., hanging out until dusk. At dusk, the group makes a few laps around town and on Main Street, parading their vehicles. As with the location, Chris noted that as summer approaches, the group will begin meeting later, around 7 p.m. to avoid the heat.
For more information, follow Bristow Nights on Facebook or contact Chris by phone at (918) 381-9530. Checking out what Bristow Nights is all about in person proves even simpler and more interesting: drive down to the Tractor Supply parking lot for their next meeting, walk around and check out the vehicles, and join in the conversation.