Calling all car enthusiasts! The renowned car gathering known as “Cars and Coffee” is in La Mesa, with meetups happening on the third Sunday of every month.
The event, spearheaded by local Daniel Pitard, was created nearly five years ago, right before the COVID-19 pandemic struck.
“I just wanted to do something rad and to make cars cool again in La Mesa,” Pitard said, adding that the pandemic put a damper on the first get-togethers, with only five to 10 cars showing up.
Pitard said that it was difficult to feel the disapproval of neighbors and authorities against the gathering, but because the event is held outside, he pushed ahead.
In the last year, according to Pitard, the event has started blowing up. He attributes it to the fact that the event welcomes all types of cars, including old Volkswagens; classics; American hotrods; show cars; big, lifted trucks; and even mopeds.
Dianne Walker began attending the event at the end of 2021, along with her 1969 Morris Mini Minor. She says her love of cars can be traced back to when she was a little girl. She recalls how she grew up working on cars with her dad and even taking an auto shop class in high school.
Today, Walker says she enjoys the social aspect of Cars & Coffee.
“It’s being together with like-minded people and seeing old and different cars,” she said. “It’s a good feeling.”
Theresa Johnson is another attendee. She says she looks forward to every third Sunday of the month and that the people she’s met there have turned into good friends. “It’s a great bunch of people,” she said.
This was always Pitard’s goal.
“I just want everybody to have a good time, enjoy cool cars and celebrate each other,” Pitard said fervently.
As he talks, Pitard turns his head every time he hears a car’s engine approaching the coffee shop patio, where we’re seated. At one point, he makes eye contact with one of the drivers, who nods and gestures as he drives by with his window down, as if acknowledging Pitard’s admiration.
Pitard turns back to continue the conversation. “This is what it’s all about, this community of friends that are unstoppable.”
