Cruise Car Nights Return to Glen Cove

weekly fundraising event kicks off in the city's downtown Thursday night.

Beginning at 6 p.m. Bridge Street will be closed off to traffic, only allowing throw back classic cars through. 

The event – which runs every Thursday through September – is meant to raise funds for a monumental upcoming event in 2012: the 175th anniversary of the Glen Cove Fire Department, the oldest department on Long Island.

"We are raising money for a big celebration," chairman of the 175th anniversary committee Bob Citko said during one of the 2010 Cruise Car events. "We hope to have a fire works display, bands and a carnival."

This is the third summer of the Cruise Car Nights series.

Custom car enthusiasts can lounge in lawn chairs next to their vehicles, as residents peruse souped-up classic cars lined up in the Village Square area.

"Come on down, enjoy the beautiful night," said chief Anthony Tripp of the department. "See some great cars, shop and dine at our local businesses."