CAMILLUS, N.Y. — The Syracuse Nationals car show, the largest car show in the Northeast, is now under new ownership.
Paradise Galaxy LLC, a joint venture between locally owned businesses Paradise Companies and Galaxy Media Partners, has purchased the Syracuse Nationals. Both companies are based in Syracuse.
The firms announced the purchase at Ivanchak’s Rock Farm at 6691 Van Buren Rd. in the town of Camillus.
Paradise Companies says it’s been a long-term partner of the Syracuse Nationals and Galaxy Media says it’s been a long-term promotional partner of the event. Paradise Galaxy says it will “uphold the traditions and culture of the Syracuse Nationals while continuing to elevate this beloved event,” per the venture’s Monday announcement.
Financial terms of the purchase agreement weren’t disclosed.
His father’s dream of bringing his car friends together 22 years ago has grown into one of the largest car shows in the country, Rob O’Connor, who owns event promoter Right Coast Inc. and whose father was the founder of the Syracuse Nationals, said in the announcement.
“A drag racer from the Sixties, his passion for cars and entrepreneurial spirit drove him to start the Syracuse Nationals. He never imagined the event would bring so many people together who share his passion. It was also important for him to give back, and I’m proud to say the Syracuse Nationals has contributed over $1.75 [million] to local charities and is responsible for over $250 [million] in economic impact in Central New York. As the Syracuse Nationals turns the page to a new chapter, I’m excited for the future because Paradise Galaxy holds the same values as my family. I look forward to working with them to continue my father’s legacy for many, many years to come,” O’Connor said.
O’Connor and his wife, Kaylie, will be staying on with Paradise Galaxy as consultants.
The 2023 Napa Syracuse Nationals is set for July 14-16 at the New York State Fairgrounds in Geddes. Paradise Galaxy will release additional information regarding this year’s lineup and ticket information later this month.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Syracuse Destiny USA will serve as the host hotel for this year’s edition, per the event’s website.