BIRCH RUN, Mich. – One of our favorite clubs in the Midwest is the non-profit Mustang Club of Mid-Michigan (MCMM), located in the Frankenmuth, Michigan, area -- which is perhaps better-known for its “World Famous Chicken Dinners” or the Bronner’s Christmas mega-store than its Mustangs. But this fun-loving and well-run group draws lots of fine Mustangs and collectible Fords from all around the central part of the state for its yearly Stampede in mid-May -- and they always put on a great show. It’s just that more often than not, the weather does not cooperate with them on show day.
That was the case again this year as the Mustang Club of Mid-Michigan’s annual Great Lakes Stampede All Ford and Mustang Car Show awakened to cloudy skies and a persistent, on-and-off cold rain. While Mother Nature teased showgoers with a brief respite from the drizzle around mid-morning, showers returned around lunch, keeping many day-of registrants at home with their Mustangs safely tucked away under cover. Anyone who has ever put on a car show knows what even the threat of rain does to attendance, but those who did brave the elements to be part of the 2025 Stampede still had plenty of smiles to go around and all seemed to have a good time.
The show was again held on the expansive property of the Birch Run (Michigan) Premium Outlets Mall, right off Interstate 75. Being located in a big rear lot with some building overhangs meant the club tables, awards, food area and DJ, as well as some sponsors and vendors, could have some shade or cover (with this year again being the latter). There also was plenty of room for the 150 or so cars on display (which is less than half the expected turnout), and yet the show still mustered enough pre-registrations, 50/50 income and raffle sales to support its local charity and give attendees an enjoyable – albeit damp and chilly – experience.
Ford Performance was on-site with our Club Connect Transit van and 10x10 Meet & Greet tent for a Mustang poster giveaway all day. There were some great vehicles to see as well, from every generation Mustang to some classic Fords, Mercury’s and F-Series pickups. During a break in the spotty showers, we were able to walk the show field to shoot photos of some of the cool Fords we found there, and chat with many of their owners. We’ve assembled some our favorites to share with you in the gallery below:
FORD PERFORMANCE PHOTOS / JOHN M. CLOR
