The Grand National Roadster Show is the oldest and most widely recognized specialty car exhibition in the country, offering 42 hours in one weekend in which to gaze in wonder at mechanical masterworks like Dean Bryant's 1954 Green Rocket, the "World's Most Beautiful Custom Roadster." After standing in the presence of such rare beauties, it's difficult to return to the real world, where dullards don't understand how a 1937 Ford Baron Phaeton transcends the term "automobile." Since it's important to decompress with people who understand you, the "Bellyscrapers BBQ" serves as an afterparty for those with chrome still twinkling in their eyes. Jesse Dayton and the Dusty 45s provide background music for the complimentary oyster barbecue on Sunday, Jan. 19, at the Parkside at 6 p.m. Tickets are $5; call 503-0393. The 54th annual Grand National Roadster Show takes place Friday through Monday, Jan. 17-20, at the San Mateo County Expo Center (2495 South Delaware St.). Tickets are $15; call (650) 574-3247 for hours.
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