On August 17, 2023, A&W locations across Canada held their annual Burger’s for MS fundraising campaign, making a difference for people living with Multiple Sclerosis. Every year, countless car enthusiasts gather on the special Thursday to raise awareness and enjoy the iconic Teen Burger together. The proceeds from each Teen Burger directly contribute to each location's goal towards the cause.

A variety of specialty vehicles were displayed at A&W Glendeer's Burgers for MS

With Calgary as my hometown, and A&W Glendeer Circle being my stomping grounds, I decided to gather with my car enthusiast family to join the car show they host. Each year, Donny organises his A&W to have a small show and shine, alongside his regular Friday show they called “Cruising At The Junction.”

Tents filled with prizes and gifts sprawled along the back of the show!

The A&W parking lot was filled with classic and specialty vehicles at every corner. From award-winning classics to rat rods and everything in between, this Thursday event mirrored the weekly Friday show and shine held at the same venue. Newcomers and familiar faces mingled together seamlessly.

The variety of vehicles that attend A&W Glendeer is always impressive to see, from late model Ford F-Series to Tri-Five Chevrolet's there is always something unique to see!

While other A&W locations mostly fundraise with Teen Burgers and donations, Donny, along with the volunteers and sponsors, collaborate together to craft an experience you won't forget. In addition to the show and shine, Donny curated the renowned ‘Chug the Root Beer’ challenge of Glendeer Circle. The event also featured appearances by Rooty the Great Root Bear and DJ Ghostbusters Dave from Calgary Ghostbusters. Rooty, the beloved A&W Root Beer brown bear in his signature orange sweater, enthusiastically attends the shows to share hugs and smiles.DJ Ghostbusters Dave wasn't just spinning records. From his booth, he set the mood and invited folks to request tunes or grab the mic for some karaoke.

Rooty The Root Bear, Donny and the owner of the 1955 Chevrolet all pose together adorning the familiar orange of A&W's famous iconic colour

The event also featured prizes for both displayed vehicles and ticket purchasers, all blindly picked from the ticket bucket. Prizes encompassed a range of items, photoshoot opportunities sponsored by Dave Shymanski, along with assorted memorabilia, high-end tools and man cave essentials. These generous prizes were provided by the event’s remarkable sponsors, to name a few.

From the first round of the Root Beer Chug challenge, with contestants fighting to drink the famous A&W Root Beer down the fastest

Through ticket sales and Teen Burgers purchases, A&W Glendeer raised an incredible $12,793.70. This significant sum was directed entirely to the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, contributing greatly to the organisation’s efforts to alleviate the impact of MS on those affected and their families.

The overflow lot was filled to the brim from the beginning of the Burgers for MS show, with veteran A&W members to fresh faces

While the Burgers for MS event has been a yearly tradition for decades, the A&W at Glendeer Circle manages to elevate the occasion into something exceptionally remarkable and unforgettable. With events like the classic car showcase and the much-anticipated Root Beer Chug challenge, Donny and the A&W crew, backed by a loyal crowd, outdo themselves year after year.. Their efforts not only underscore the incredible camaraderie of the car community, but also demonstrate our collective commitment to support impactful causes like the fight to end Multiple Sclerosis.

The A&W Glendeer's Burger For MS show was an absolute treat to visit, filled with kindred spirits and beautiful automobiles, this was the show to be at on this hot summers day

Until next time, and next year as well, go out and grab a meal with friends, and when the time returns, grab a delicious Teen Burger from A&W and help be a part of the change in the world of those affected by MS. I’ll see you all on the road soon!

 - Kyle Hanger of Searching For Classics