Hamlin saddles up for first Cars & Country event

Hamlin is hosting its first Cars & Country event from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9. 

Located at 14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden, the evening will be filled with fun activities for the whole family to enjoy. 

“We’ve never done a country music concert out here in Hamlin, and I thought what better way to change that than by pairing it with a lineup of classic cars?” said Heather Easterling, event director and PR coordinator for Boyd Development Co., which owns the Hamlin area. “Cars & Country is all about good tunes, cool rides and bringing our vibrant community together in a way that feels fresh and fun.” 

Easterling said it is the perfect night to kick back, and sing and dance under the stars to live music while checking out vintage cars. 

Residents are welcome to bring their cars and show them off. Although it is a classic and vintage car show, other cars are welcomed, as well. 

The band Southbound will perform as an opener from 5 to 7 p.m. Jaclyn Hayden, a country-music singer, also will perform from 7 to 9 p.m. 

“This will be the first time having country music out here, which is amazing,” Easterling said. “It’s always a good time having a concert.” 

She said Hamlin tries to have a concert at least once per year.

“I think the community has proven to love live music,” she said. “So we try to bring that out whenever we can.” 

In addition to the concert and classic car show, some entertainment also will be provided. MissingLink Entertainment will provide a deejay and games, and Masterpiece Events will have a 360 photo booth. The Wild Breck Boutique will be selling clothes and jewelry.

The event also will have a PopStroke food truck and an Up and Smoke BBQ food truck. Abbott’s Frozen Custard also will make an appearance.

Because the event is rooted in country music, Easterling hopes attendee’s attires reflect the theme. 

“We’d love everyone to show up in some Western wear, but they can come in casual attire,” Easterling said. “It’s an outdoor concert.” 

Easterling said she is excited for the event, because it is the first time the Town Center is hosting something of the sort. 

“I’m hoping for a great community vibe,” she said.