Every Thursday, around 6 p.m., the Arby's parking lot returns to what two individuals, Nancy Cook and David Davis, would describe as a time with better cars and better music.
As modern SUVs and trucks woosh past the Arby's in Rexburg, members of the Snake River Cruise Nights create an entirely different era. Vintage paint jobs and classic-bodied cars line up next to each other, tempting passers to take a look.
One of the group coordinators, 67-year-old Nancy Cook, explained that the group meets every Thursday night and has become a sort of "Date night" for members. Seeing as nobody officially runs the group, individuals can come and go casually and hang out with one another.
A variety of cars are brought each Thursday. Cook, for example, brings her red-and-white 60 Metropolitan Nash every as her contribution to the meetup.

Other cars can be spotted here, such as a blue '69 El Camino and a red-and-black '69 Camaro.
Member of the group David Davis explained that, for him, the older cars aren't just about the looks; they transport him back to a time of different music and "spirit." He believes that, deep down, younger generations still gravitate towards older vehicles because they are looking for that lost sense of character.
"Modern cars are nice, and they're fun, but they're nothing like the old muscle cars," Davis said.
For these two individuals, Davis and Nancy, the meetups are an opportunity to get together and reminisce. This time allows them to take a drive down memory lane, literally and metaphorically.
"Everyone comes back to the old cars and the old songs because they tell a story," Davis said.
Davis wishes older cars and old music still influenced younger generations as they influence him.
As members gather and catch up, they head inside to grab some dinner from Arby's.

Cook extended a warm invitation to anyone who wishes to participate, whether that means bringing a classic car of their own or just munching on some Arby's while chatting with friends.
To connect with the group online, locals can find them on Facebook at Snake River Cruise Nights.




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