The Chateau Elan Military Support Foundation recently celebrated the success of its 5th Annual “Cars of Chateau” charity car show, hosted at the Chateau Elan Hotel and Resort. This year’s event attracted over 140 automotive marvels, featuring a remarkable array of American and European classic cars, exotic supercars, and vintage race cars spanning multiple decades. The show took place on Sunday, October 27th, and drew in more than 1,500 car enthusiasts and community supporters, all gathered to make a difference for our military veterans and their families. 

The weekend festivities kicked off with a 20-car rally through the scenic routes of Northeast Georgia, culminating in a memorable visit to the Panoz Museum on Highway 124. This unique experience set the tone for the main event. Spectators were welcomed with the presentation of colors and singing of the National Anthem by Diana Smith. 24 cars were presented awards along with sponsor recognition awards. Later in the day the crowd was treated to a dazzling airshow and flyover performance by the Full Throttle Formation Team from Atlanta. Known as the largest precision formation airshow team in the U.S., these highly skilled pilots brought a thrilling display of aerial choreography in “Van's Aircraft” experimental planes—some of which the pilots had built themselves. Collectively, the team represents over 300,000 hours of flight experience in both military and commercial aviation, a testament to their expertise and dedication.

This year, new additions elevated the event even further. A large screen displayed sponsors’ names and videos, bringing awareness to the generous support of local businesses and organizations. A kids’ zone featuring a jump house with a slide, and a special guest appearance by Super Mario—courtesy of Stroll Chateau Elan—provided fun for young attendees. Food and wine from Chateau Elan, five food trucks, live music by Highway 211, and a silent auction rounded out the day, creating a festive atmosphere of community and support.

The event fostered a wonderful community atmosphere while raising over $100,000 to directly support veterans and their families—a cause central to the mission of the Chateau Elan Military Support Foundation. The foundation presented a $30,000 check to The Headstrong Project, which is a non-profit mental health organization providing confidential, barrier-free, and stigma-free PTSD treatment to veterans, service members, and family connected to their care. Their goal is to help clients “Triumph Over Trauma.” by providing them with effective mental health treatment.

The event’s success was made possible by the support of the Chateau Elan Hotel, generous sponsors, and a committed community. A special thanks goes to the dedicated “Cars of Chateau” committee members and Chateau Elan residents whose tireless efforts brought this event to life: Jeff and Rene Oldham, Tom Reichart, Greg and Leigh Ann Paugh, Jon Spangler, David Weigand, Mindy Pajak, Diana Smith, Jan and Steve Harrison, Sue Wyatt, Alan Kloor, Lynn and Dan Everitt, Ray Pastoric, Linda Miller, Jim and Tiffany Kreinbrink, Russell Coolman, Kent Hochgertle, Harry Krix, Ray Stanley, Gary Dyck, Alan Boe, Kerry and Kim Smith and Paula Ragsdale. Their hard work ensures that 100% of the proceeds benefit veterans in need.

For upcoming events, including the highly anticipated 2025 Cars of Chateau and the Chateau Elan Military Support Foundation’s Annual Legends Golf Tournament in April, follow us online. Visit our website at cemilitarysupportfoundation.org, or stay connected on Facebook (Chateau Elan Military Support Foundation) and Instagram (ce_militarysupport) for all updates and announcements.

Thank you to everyone who attended, displayed a vehicle, or contributed to this extraordinary cause. Together, we’ve driven positive change in the lives of those who have served.