2025 marks the 72nd anniversary of the Corvette, designed and engineered by General Motors chief stylist Harley J. Earl, who was inspired while attending the 1951 races at Watkins Glen. The first Corvette, quickly dubbed “America’s Sports Car,” thrilled onlookers at the races at the Glen two years later.

Corvette Thunder in the Glen, May 17-18, 2025, celebrates Harley Earl’s legacy, with two days of activities at Clute Park on the shores of beautiful Seneca Lake, on the Village’s main street, and at the historic Watkins Glen International racetrack. 

On Saturday, May 17, the day will begin with Corvette owners will line the Clute Park Trailway to exhibit their prized Corvettes from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Drivers are asked to be in position by 9:30 am for the 10 am to 3 pm car exhibit. Food trucks and other vendors will be located throughout the park.

At 5 p.m., Corvette afficionados will gather at the Clute Park Community Center for a dinner and presentation by Richard Prince. Prince will speak about the history of the Corvette, and will answer questions about the longevity of this great American Car. 

On Sunday May 18, pre-registered Corvette owners will take over Watkins Glen’s Franklin Street, putting their cars on display from noon to 3 p.m. The show will stretch south from Fourth Street to the historic start/finish line of the Original Road-Race Circuit in front of the Schuyler County Courthouse. At 3 p.m., drivers will start their engines and drive one paced lap of the Old Course. After that, the cars will make their way up to Watkins Glen International for laps on the world-renowned racetrack.

This Watkins Glen Promotions event promises to be a memorable experience for Corvette owners and fans alike!

Information regarding Automobile Photographer Richard Prince: Richard Prince is a leading automobile photographer whose connections span the globe. While running a Corvette restoration business in 1992, Prince began writing a column for ‘Vette Magazine. His growing editorial career led him to expand his photography skills and become the official photographer for Corvette Racing. Prince’s photography has appeared in over 400 publications, including Car and Driver, Road & Track,  Motor Trend, and Automobile. He also serves as a tech editor for Corvette Magazine, writing several articles including a regular Q&A column. In 1999, Prince published his first book, a C3 restoration and technical guide.