On January 27th, 2024, Formula Auctions granted me an incredible opportunity to immerse myself in a spectacular showcase of automotive excellence. Over the course of five days spent in the LA area, I had the privilege of witnessing an array of spectacular automobiles. However, the highlight of this short week was the 3rd Annual Mooneyes New Year’s Party held at Irwindale Speedway, an event that truly left me marvelling in automotive culture.

The cars were lined and ready to enter into the show

Mooneyes, a name synonymous with hot rod culture and performance parts, has had a lasting impact since 1950, thanks to Dean Moon's iconic mark on the aftermarket marketplace of the time. Dean Moon became renowned for adorning his drag cars with the iconic "Moon Eyes" artwork. His influence extended even further when he played a pivotal role in collaborating with Carroll Shelby to create the very first Shelby Cobra. Additionally, Dean Moon's legacy endures as one of the founding members of SEMA in 1963, leaving an indelible mark on automotive history.

A grouping of air cooled Volkswagen's seemingly surrounded this R32 Nissan Skyline within their area

More than half a century later, the enduring legacy of Mooneyes remains robust, thanks to the dedicated efforts of close family friend Shige Suganuma, who has preserved the Mooneyes name in both the American and Japanese branches of the company. The iconic Mooneyes logo still enjoys widespread popularity worldwide, adorning everything from hot rods and stickers to collectibles and toys. The unmistakable bright yellow and white Moon Eyes logo continues to thrive and captivate enthusiasts to this day.

A lifted Ford Econoline was seen touring the aisles looking for parking

The Mooneyes New Year's Party took place at the renowned Irwindale Speedway, adjacent to their 1/8th mile drag strip. The venue was teeming with 1300 classic cars, vendors, and some highly recognizable figures from the automotive community. The eclectic mix of vehicles left me in a state of awe from the moment I arrived until the time I departed from the speedway.

The drag racers preparing to conquer the 1/8 mile

Car clubs from all across the southwestern United States flocked to the event, setting up tents to seek refuge from the scorching sunshine. They congregated in chairs, with each group preparing sumptuous feasts to share with their friends and families. Amidst the mouthwatering meals, some of these clubs even treated everyone to miniature concerts, drawing in crowds of fascinated onlookers who had the privilege of witnessing these talented musicians performing live and in action!

One of the amazing car groups performing a live spectacle of music for all to enjoy

The car show was just one facet of the event's excitement. The 1/8th mile drag strip buzzed with the roaring sounds of high-performance vehicles, ranging from gassers and pro-street cars to unconventional contenders like a Beetle and a motorcycle. Purpose-built race cars sped down the track, running neck-and-neck as they vied for the title of the fastest elapsed time and top speed, delivering a genuine adrenaline rush even for spectators like myself watching from the sidelines.

A vintage Ford Fairlane powering down the 1/8th mile

Returning to the car show itself, the diversity of vehicles on display was truly remarkable. The event featured clusters of air-cooled Volkswagens, hydro-hopping lowriders, drag strip dominating gassers, and a myriad of other automotive styles and custom builds spread throughout the grounds of Irwindale Speedway. While I explored the venue, I couldn't cover the entire show, but I made it a point to capture stories and photographs of the parts I did witness, ensuring that there are plenty of future stories for all to enjoy soon.

1959 Chevrolet El Camino cruising into the show

The 3rd Annual Mooneyes New Year’s Party was an unforgettable experience, with an overwhelming number of automobiles filling the grounds to capacity. I had the opportunity to immerse myself in a wide range of car cultures all within a single location, meet incredible individuals I had only conversed with online, and witness world-renowned custom builds that I'll be featuring soon. However, for now, I want to emphasise that if you ever have the chance to attend this event at least once in your life, regardless of where you're from, it is an absolute must!

A small group of Chevrolet A-Body cars cruising through the aisles

Until the next time I see you guys, get wrenching, get driving, and keep these classics alive!

A Cadillac cruising around with a good wide shot of the shows immense size

The Asphalt Cowboy dragster being towed by its push car Ranchero to run once again down the 1/8 mile

- Kyle Hanger of Searching for Classics