When local enthusiasts restarted Mill Creek Cars & Coffee (MCCC) in April 2024, the goal was clear- create a relaxed, ego-free meet where anyone who loves cars could hang out, talk shop, and share a cup of coffee. “It began with just a handful of cars,” community organizers, Paulo and Eldon shared. “Now, it’s the fastest-growing Cars & Coffee in the area, with well over 100 cars most weekends.” But it’s not just about the vehicles. “The cars are the icebreaker,” they said. “The real magic is the people. Exotic owners chat with folks in daily drivers, families bring their kids, and photographers swap tips with builders. It’s the kind of Saturday morning that turns strangers into friends—and that sense of belonging is what keeps people coming back.”

From Lamborghinis and Aston Martins to classic muscle cars to quirky treasures like a 1970 Subaru 360 Sambar van decorated for a picnic, every week brings something new. “We never curate or gatekeep,” they explained. “Our motto is simple: all cars, all people, everyone’s welcome. That openness keeps the mix fresh every week.”

First-timers can expect a laid-back atmosphere, a welcoming crowd, and plenty of variety. “You don’t need to belong to a club or own a certain type of car—just show up, grab a coffee, and start a conversation,” they said. “If you’re bringing a car, come early; the lot usually fills before 10 a.m.” Both founders are lifelong car enthusiasts, each owning classic BMWs and sharing a soft spot for wagons. “That passion drives how we run MCCC: inclusive, positive, and ego-free,” they explained. “We know what it feels like to want a place where your car—and your story—are understood.”

Beyond the chrome and horsepower, MCCC has become a real community hub. The group regularly gives back through food drives, holiday events, and charitable tie-ins. Their first food drive for the Mill Creek Community Food Bank collected over 2,400 pounds of food. They’ve also organized Trunk-or-Treat events with local churches and chambers and plan to host a Toys for Tots drive this December. “We’ve always said this gathering is about the community and giving back,” they said. “Cars bring us together, but community keeps us coming back.”

Running such a large grassroots event isn’t without its hurdles. “Weather is always a challenge—this is the Pacific Northwest, after all—and parking logistics get tricky once we top 100 cars,” they admitted. The organizers credit strong communication and partnerships with their venue and local police for keeping things running smoothly. “We use our best judgment to make sure safety comes first. If the weather could jeopardize anyone’s safety, we’ll cancel. Community comes before cars.”

Looking ahead, the team hopes to keep growing while preserving the small-town feel that makes MCCC special. “We want to continue featuring interviews, adding charitable tie-ins, and maybe even host a larger city event—like closing Mill Creek’s Main Street for a car show,” they said. They’re also planning a community merchandise shop for next season, featuring MCCC stickers and apparel.

Ask these guys what makes it all worthwhile, and their stories say it best. “We’ve had kids get to sit in their dream cars for the first time because owners open their doors to make it happen. The smiles say everything.” One of their favorite stories comes from a longtime attendee who bought a rare JDM import after falling in love with one he’d seen at a meet. “He keeps a necklace hanging from the mirror in memory of his son who passed away,” they shared. “For him, the car isn’t just about driving—it’s about connection and healing. That’s what this community is about: people sharing joy through cars.”

As the season winds down, fans can stay connected through Mill Creek Cars & Coffee 2025 on Facebook or via their Linktree, which links to Instagram and other updates. For the organizers, it all comes back to the same simple idea that started it all:

“Cars bring us together. Community keeps us coming back.”

Scan the QR code to go to their Linktree or check out their website: millcreekcarsandcoffee.com