CARS … Depot Street was lined with lots of bright and beautiful old-style cars like this Chevelle Malibu.
PHOTOS BY RENEA KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER
SHOP … Attendees were able to shop around with local vendors, including numerous food trucks.
By: Renea Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
renea@thevillagereporter.com
Downtown Archbold came alive on Saturday, October 4, 2025, as cars, music, and the smell of chili filled the air for the annual Archbold Car Show and Community Event.
Hosted at 111 Depot Street, the daylong celebration brought together residents, car enthusiasts, and local businesses for a full schedule of activities designed to give back to the community.
The morning kicked off with rows of classic and custom cars lining the streets from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Spectators admired the vehicles while owners proudly showed off years of work and restoration. Dash plaques and trophies were awarded at 1 p.m., followed by raffles and a 50/50 drawing.
Alongside the show, vendors sold food and drinks, while families enjoyed ice cream, bounce houses for the kids, and a variety of community displays.
Even a food collection drive was held, with all donations going toward local causes, a reminder that this event remains proudly nonprofit.
As the afternoon rolled in, the focus shifted to the annual chili cook-off from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Local businesses from across Archbold competed for bragging rights and the title of best chili, filling the area near F&W’s building with the unmistakable aroma of simmering spices and friendly competition. Visitors sampled and voted on their favorites, turning the cook-off into a lively community gathering.
When evening arrived, the celebration only grew louder. The after-party ran from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., featuring three live bands that kept the crowd energized late into the night.
Guests relaxed with food vendors, enjoyed the cigar lounge, beer tent, and margarita slushies, and soaked in the festive small-town atmosphere.