No matter what the weather conditions are on Saturday, June 20, it's guaranteed to thunder in Columbia. More than 525 cars, trucks and motorcycles will roll into town for the 12th annual Thunder on the River. At noon, all participants will fire their engines in unison, letting out a roar that will rumble through the streets like a summer thunderstorm.

"We started this tradition several years ago, and it's become something people look forward to," said Paul Resch, president of the Columbia Lions Club, which organizes the event. "When hundreds of engines roar to life at the same time, it's a sound you feel in your chest. It's one of those moments that makes this show unlike anything else in the area."

Thunder on the River will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain or shine, on Locust Street between Front and Sixth streets and in Locust Street Park. Admission is free for spectators.

This year's sold-out show welcomes all makes and models of vehicles, with 86 trophies awarded across a variety of categories, including Best of Show and the Barry Doutrich Memorial Trophy, named for the show's founder.

"Every year, this show feels like stepping back into the best parts of our past," Resch said. "You'll see the car you drove in high school, the one your dad taught you to drive in or the one you always dreamed about. These vehicles carry stories - first dates, family road trips, late-night cruises and memories that connect generations."

This year's show also coincides with two historic celebrations.

"Columbia is celebrating its 300th anniversary, and the opening ceremonies take place the night before our show," Resch said. "At the same time, America is celebrating its 250th anniversary. With both milestones happening together, we're encouraging everyone to wear red, white and blue and really show their patriotism and community pride."

Several veterans organizations will be present, including Vietnam Veterans of America, the Navy Club, the Lancaster County Marine Corps League Toys for Tots and the Young Marines.

"It means a lot to have the veterans with us," Resch added. "Their presence reminds us that our freedoms - and the celebrations we enjoy - are possible because of the men and women who served."

At 11:30 a.m., Boy Scout Troop 35 will lead a flag ceremony, followed by the national anthem and engine revving at noon.

A Kids Pit Stop located in the parking garage at CHI St. Joseph Children's Health, 401 Locust St., will feature face painting, crafts and fun for kids, plus free toy car giveaways by Columbia Borough Police.

"Thunder on the River is a family event," Resch said. "Kids love the crafts and face painting, parents love the cars, and everyone loves the energy. And for the little ones, nothing compares to walking up to a police officer and getting a free Hot Wheels or Matchbox car. It's a small gesture that creates a big memory."

Official Thunder on the River T-shirts will be available for purchase at the Lions headquarters tent in front of 345 Locust St. The Lions will also collect food donations for the Columbia Food Bank and will sell tickets for a 50-50 drawing.

The Last Ride & Macabre Creations, sponsored by Mount Bethel Cemetery, will feature hearses, ambulances and flower cars between Sixth and Seventh streets, and vendors in the cemetery, 700 Locust St.

Restrooms will be available at multiple outdoor and indoor locations, including Columbia Market House and St. Paul Lutheran Church.

Food trucks and nonprofit food vendors will be set up on South Fourth Street, and people are also encouraged to visit Columbia eateries. A full list may be found at https://columbiamerchants.com. Participating food trucks will include Scoops Ice Cream and Grille, Halo's Eatery and Nouveau Tea - Vietnamese Bakery & Cafe.

Spectator parking for Thunder on the River will be available on surrounding streets and in designated lots, including Holy Trinity Church, Janson Park, Columbia Church and Columbia Market House. Handicap parking will be available on North Fourth Street between Locust and Walnut streets.

Thunder on the River benefits the Columbia Borough Fire Department for the purchase of a new ladder truck and the Columbia Lions Club vision and eyeglass program. Since 2014, the Lions have donated $84,200 from the car show to local nonprofits.

Resch noted that the show is always held the third Saturday in June, which usually falls the day before Father's Day.

"It's the perfect opportunity to celebrate the fathers, grandfathers and father figures who've shaped our lives," he said. "When you walk through the show, you'll see that spirit everywhere: multi‑generational vehicles restored by fathers and sons or even fathers and grandsons, families attending together and people proudly sharing the stories behind the cars that have been passed down through generations. It's truly a family‑friendly event, and that sense of tradition and community is a big part of what makes the show special."