South Mississippi’s annual “Cruising the Coast” event has classic car lovers — and their vehicles — gathering in the Biloxi area.

The tents were already going up along Highway 90 Friday and Saturday as early birds arrived for the annual weeklong event, which starts Sunday.

There was even a “pre-cruising” event at Vancleave Lower Elementary School Friday.

More than a dozen cruisers showed up with their decades-old cars to show them off to the youngsters.

Mickey Griffin of Pascagoula took his 1972 Cutlass convertible. He told WLOX TV that he loves everything about the event that draws thousands to the coast.

“Oh, I like all of it. The old music. The cars. Just the camaraderie with everybody,” said Griffin.

Glen Lynd likes to share stories behind his 1955 Star Chief Pontiac.

“My dad bought it new in 1955 from Nelson’s Pontiac in Moss Point. I took my wife out in it when I was 16 years old. And I’ve still got both of them, the car and her,” he explained.

Bobby Hall said his ‘57 Chevrolet two-door Belair hard top languished in his back yard for years before restoration.

“Had the car for about 28 years. It set out back, tore all to pieces until 2008. Finished it up for “Cruising the Coast” 2009. And I’ve been having fun with it ever since,” said Hall. At Vancleave, the children strolled through the parking lot filled with classics. Some were dressed in 1950s styles.

“These kids are just wonderful. And they’ve enjoyed it so much. And they’re so cute dressed up in their skirts and little rolled up sleeves. Just darling,” said Kala Farris.

“To see kids of this age really enjoy looking at the old cars and getting a kick out of them, it’s a lot of fun,” said

Mickey Griffin of Pascagoula took his 1972 Cutlass convertible. He told WLOX TV that he loves everything about the event that draws thousands to the coast.

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Information from: WLOX-TV, http://www.wlox.com