On August 19, 2023, the Northern Mopars 33rd Annual Show and Shine was well underway. Enthusiasts from across Alberta gathered to celebrate Chrysler Corporation’s remarkable vehicles. This year, the event honoured the 45th anniversary of the Lil’ Red Express Truck, and it was truly a once in a lifetime sight for all attendees.

Over twenty Dodge Lil' Red Express Trucks were in attendance

For almost a decade, Capitol Hill has been host to the Northern Mopar’s show and shine, featuring meticulously restored classic Mopars and modern day muscle cars set against the backdrop of the park’s surrounding brush. The park transforms with hues of HEMI oranges, sublime greens and plum crazy purples, reminiscent of the vibrant colours at the peak of the muscle car era, giving enthusiasts a feast for the eyes.

A replica of a vintage Calgary Police Service patrol car was in attendance as well

This year commemorated the 45th anniversary of the Lil’ Red Express truck. In celebration, owners from across Canada were invited to showcase their cherished performance trucks at the show and shine. Surprisingly, the event turned into a sea of red, as over 20 vibrant red stepside pickups with factory smokestack exhaust arrived throughout the day. This gathering potentially set a new Canadian record for the highest number of Lil’ Reds displayed together at once.

The Northern Mopars always bring out the most diverse variety of vehicles to showcase

Vendors and food trucks were situated along the park’s western edge, offering delectable meals and even collectibles for everyone’s pleasure. The park was brimming with a variety of Mopar wonders, ranging from the radical Superbird to practical family station wagons. The Northern Mopar’s event showcased a diverse array of vehicles that catered to every enthusiast’s imagination.

A Dodge stepside and modern Challenger roll into the event together

With nearly 200 showcased Mopars, the park’s limited space was on the brink of overflowing. The event, as always, provided a splendid and successful experience for all to witness.

An iconic 1970 Plymouth Superbird adorned in iconic Road Runner show murals, an 80's style that's survived all these decades beautifully

The Northern Mopar’s Show and Shine united Mopar enthusiasts from all over Alberta, creating a day filled with excitement and excellence. In honour of the Lil’ Red Express truck’s 45th anniversary, the event featured a remarkable and distinctive display of the rare police-packaged muscle trucks, offering attendees a truly incredible sight to behold.

The park was filled with Mopar's from every walk of life

Until the next time, keep the rubber side down and the pedal to the metal, and enjoy the open road ahead.

The collection of A-Body and B-Body Mopars were an absolute sight to behold

- Kyle Hanger of Searching for Classics