Good news from the crew behind Jimmy’s Old Car Picnic, which has been battling the Rec & Park Department for several months about whether they can continue to use Speedway Meadow for their 20+ year old event.

Mark your calendars – this year’s picnic will be held on Saturday, October 16 at Speedway Meadow. Note the picnic is usually on a Sunday so this is a new change.

The whole dispute with the Rec & Park Department revolved around money, though the department led residents and picnic supporters to believe it was about their concerns for the grass in Speedway Meadow.

Ahem, I don’t think so. I attended Alice 97.3′s recent Summerthing concert in Speedway Meadow where thousands were camped out on the grass for hours with blankets. Are you telling me that is any better for the grass than a few hundred parked cars?

Predictably, Jimmy’s is having to pay up for the privilege of using the park. On their blog, Jimmy’s says “SF Rec & Park raised our permit fees through the roof!” so the fees that car enthusiasts pay to display their classics and hot rods at the event will be going up.

I’m thrilled to know this great Golden Gate Park tradition will be continuing on Saturday, October 16. Stay tuned to Jimmy’s Old Car Picnic website for updates on the event.

Sarah B.

The crowd on Speedway Meadow for Alice 97.3′s Summerthing concert earlier this summer.