Santa Ynez, CA – The annual Cars & Cowboys fundraiser hosted by SYV Community Outreach returned in full throttle on September 28, 2024, bringing car enthusiasts, philanthropists, and local families together for a day of excitement and generosity. Against the beautiful backdrop of Santa Ynez Valley, this year’s event featured a dazzling display of vintage and modern cars, mouth-watering BBQ, live entertainment, and a lively live auction.

The 2024 Cars & Cowboys event, held at Red River Ranch in Los Olivos, was a testament to the Valley's vibrant community spirit. Guests explored a wide variety of incredible cars, each meticulously showcased by their passionate owners. The cowboy spirit was in full swing, with attendees donning cowboy hats and boots to celebrate our Valley's rich Western heritage.

Highlights of the Day

Classic Car Showcase: Local and regional car collectors brought their prized vehicles, turning the event into a car lover’s dream. This year, for the first time, Cars & Cowboys had the honor of featuring the original Batmobile — the iconic car designed for the 1960s TV show by the late, renowned Hollywood car creator George Barris. This legendary vehicle stole the show, drawing fans of all ages eager to catch a glimpse of a true pop culture icon. Alongside the Batmobile, the showcase featured everything from vintage muscle cars to modern exotic vehicles, drawing car aficionados and curious onlookers alike. Visitors enjoyed up-close looks at rare models and were able to chat with car owners to learn more about each vehicle's history.

Live Auction Led by Carla Harrison: The energy was electric during the live auction, expertly hosted by auctioneer Carla Harrison. Harrison’s dynamic presence and engaging style kept the audience enthralled, leading to some incredible bids on unique items and experiences. Her skillful energy added an exciting flair to the auction, making it a standout part of the day’s festivities.

BBQ and Live Music: Guests enjoyed a delectable BBQ spread, capturing the true essence of Western cuisine. With live music by The Blue Breeze Band setting the rhythm, attendees danced, dined, and enjoyed a true taste of Santa Ynez hospitality. The sounds of live music filled the air, enhancing the camaraderie and celebratory mood of the event.

Charitable Impact: Cars & Cowboys is not only a celebration of cars and cowboy culture but also an event deeply rooted in community support. Thanks to the generosity of attendees, donors, and sponsors, SYV Community Outreach raised essential funds to support SYV Community Outreach’s many programs. The success of the event will help expand SYVCO’s  impact, ensuring that support reaches those who need it most in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Looking Ahead

The success of this year’s Cars & Cowboys sets the stage for an even bigger and better event in 2025. With each year, the event grows stronger, powered by the commitment of our community and the dedication of SYV Community Outreach. Prepare for more cars, more BBQ, and more opportunities to make a difference next year!
Thank you to everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, and made Cars & Cowboys 2024 an unforgettable day. Together, we are driving change and building a brighter future for our community.