Exotic Cars on the Circle supports Flight to the North Pole

Santa made a rare September appearance at the Exotic Car Festival on St. Armands Circle.

Exotic Cars on the Circle drew dozens of car enthusiasts despite the heat Sept. 7 at St. Armands Circle Park in an event sponsored by Ferrari Drivers SRQ.

Owners of exotic cars parked their cars before mixing with other car lovers in an effort to support the local nonprofit, Flight to the North Pole. The charity provides financial and emotional support to terminally ill children and their families in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. 

To display a car in the Exotic Car Festival, a $25 minimum donation to Flight to the North Pole is required. This recurring event raises money to fund the cost of Christmas gifts for the children.

Children supported by the nonprofit attended the Exotic Car Festival as well. Santa, also known as Tony Wilburn, greeted the children as they perused the lineup of cars with their families.

"We are here at every one of these car festivals," Wilburn said. "It is great to spread some joy to these children and provide gifts."

Along with supporting local charities, new residents Marlee and Tim Gabriele use car festivals to meet new friends after they moved to the area from from Michigan. When hearing about Exotic Cars on the Circle, they thought it was a perfect event to attend.

"This area has such a vibrant scene for car lovers," Tim Gabriele said. "We have met so many of our friends through the different car clubs and events. It always is great to attend because we will run into someone we know or meet someone new."