Rattle Trap Revival 3 – Bodega Bay Beckons

Rattle Trap Revival 3 had a little bit of everything in terms of automotive art and culture. And it was held in a region of Northern California steeped in Silver Screen fame.

If you’re an Alfred Hitchcock fan, then you’re familiar with the name Bodega Bay. The sleepy little coastal town that was attacked by our feathered friends in Hitchcock’s “Birds.” It is a beautiful part of the Northern California coast, and because of that iconic movie the town is world famous as well.

But just a little east of there lies another sleepy little town, Valley Ford, home of Rattle Trap Revival 3. It’s one of those towns on Highway 1 you might miss if you blink your eyes driving through it. There’s your usual small town post office, general store, and small hotel above the local pub. It’s a quiet, friendly town.

But once every two years the town is invaded by vintage hot rods, old school customs, and cool choppers! Six years ago, the local car club here decided to hold a car show to raise money. It was held on club members’ ranch on the edge of town. It’s a perfect venue with lots of space, a big pond, and cool, old buildings for a scenic back drop and vintage vibe. The club built a stage for bands to play on, local vendors bought great food and products to sell, and the show was a huge success.

And here we are – Rattle Trap Revival 3. The only big show rule is no billet queens! Vintage is the key word here. Your hosts, the South of Heaven Filthies car club was established in 2009 (Self-proclaimed as “A group of blue collar friends and family with unique rides!”).

The club members have a wide selection of vintage hot rods and old school customs. They wanted their show to have a similar theme. So as you walk around the show you can see everything from all out “rat rods” to very clean vintage roadsters. Live music, a pin-up contest, and some way cool handmade awards made for a fun day.

The drive from San Francisco’s East Bay to Valley Ford only took an hour and half, (on a Saturday morning), and you drive through some really pretty country to get there. Once you’re there you have about a 15 minute drive to some great coastal towns offering some enticing options for post-event lodging and fun.

Most important of all is the charitable and community arm of Rattle Trap Revival. All of the proceeds from past shows have gone to TLC in Sebastopol – a child and family service that provides foster care and adoption .

This year, Rattle Trap Revival 3 donated to Healdsburg High School’s Auto Shop program. Club member Russel Waters volunteers there helping teach the kids about the wonderful world of automobiles and how to fix ‘em up!

What could be better?

Rattle Trap Revival 3 Photo Extra!