Lowriders Rising

On Sunday, May 4th, 2025, the vibrant world of Lowrider cars and trucks will take center stage at Woodburn Cars and Coffee, celebrating a rich tapestry of cultural and historical significance that enlivens the automotive realm. These remarkable vehicles hold an irreplaceable place in our hearts, a testament to generations of dedication. Since the 1950s, car clubs and families have poured their passion into transforming cars for cruising, showcases, and competitions, a tradition that endures to this day. Over the years, a deep appreciation has emerged for the art of converting classic cars, including beloved models like the Chevrolet SS Impala, Bel Air, Mercury Eight, and many more.

With Woodburn’s profound connections to American-Latino culture, it is only fitting that our inaugural theme day for Woodburn Cars and Coffee pays tribute to the invaluable influence and legacy of the local Hispanic community. Originally settled in 1871 following the arrival of the railroad, the place once known as Halsey was renamed Woodburn, both to distinguish it from another Halsey, Oregon further south and in the wake of a devastating slash-and-burn event that marked settler Settlemier’s land.

As we moved into the 1940s, Oregon’s farms faced a dire shortage of labor due to World War II and the unjust incarceration of Japanese-American citizens. In response, the Bracero Program ushered in over fifteen thousand hardworking Mexican laborers to Oregon from 1942 to 1947. Those braceros who chose to break their contracts and remain in Oregon, alongside those who returned as unauthorized immigrants, helped forge the early Latino community in Woodburn, enriching our culture and setting the stage for future waves of Hispanic-American families who would arrive from Texas. These pivotal moments have become woven into the very fabric of Woodburn’s cultural identity, earning it the affectionate nickname Tijuanita, or Little Mexico, from the locals.

With a heart full of cultural pride and a deep appreciation for these contributions, Woodburn Cars and Coffee will kick off every season with a theme day dedicated to honoring our Hispanic community, showcasing our commitment by exclusively sourcing our coffee from Woodburn’s very own Café La Onda.

Lowriders will bask in the glory of primary parking, and as we look to the future, we are excited to introduce competitions, celebrating the essence and spirit of this incredible automotive heritage.

This weeks Cars and Coffee will be hosted at 3002 Stacey Allison Way Woodburn, OR 97071.