The classic, hot rod and custom cars, trucks and motorcycles are the main attraction this September at Denton Main Street Association’s (DMSA) Arts, Antiques & Autos (AAA) event Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., around the historic Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square, 110 W. Hickory St.
This festival showcases up to 200 car show participants whose owners are competing for numerous awards, including the coveted Best of Show Awards, specialty awards, first place in the Original or Modified category for each class, or a participants’ choice award in the class.
Festival attendees can stroll through this fun and fantastic display of vehicles and vote on their favorites, too.
This year, there will be six themed awards for the public to vote on, including Best“Family Truckster,” Best “Mid-Life Crisis Car,” “Diamond in the Rough”, and more.
Local artists contribute to the trophies for the whimsical and specialty awards with their artistic touch custom-painted on old and antique car parts, making these awards mantle-worthy.
“This festival is one of Denton’s most popular community events and it highlights historic downtown Denton in a unique way that truly captures the culture of Denton,” said Craig Thomas, DMSA board member and AAA event chairman. “Our custom-made specialty trophies have really enhanced the awards and we are looking forward to seeing what the artists come up with this year.”
The Chalk Art Fest Contest is back! Last year artists of all ages sketched fabulous chalk drawings on the West Oak Street sidewalks downtown – a must-see during and after the event. This year winners in four age categories can walk away with some cash prizes. Entry fees, applications and more information is available on the website.
“We are excited to offer this contest again this year and we are appreciative to the sponsor who is providing cash prizes,” said Lora Amyx-Gorman, DMSA board member. “We look forward to seeing some more masterpieces on the downtown sidewalks.”
The arts and antiques abound at this event and festival-goers can shop and stroll through fine arts and crafts vendor booths, as well as those offered in the specialty boutiques, antique and vintage stores, art galleries and studios in downtown. The antique collector, or those aspiring to start, can learn some fast facts about a special antique or heirloom in the “Attic Treasure” information appraisals.
“Attic Treasure” Information Appraisals will be conducted in some of downtown’s stores with specialists available to provide information on general antiques and collectibles, including art, jewelry, clocks, china, silver, glass, and general antiques. (Limit 3 items. No furniture or photos of items please). Appraisals are $5 per item or 3 for $10. Tickets are available at stores where specialists are located or at the Information Booth on the courthouse lawn during the event.
The silent auction inside the courthouse will also be a place to bid on some nice items ranging from downtown merchant goods and restaurant certificates to local entertainment and art packages.
“Our silent auction benefits the Denton Main Street Association, which is the organization and program responsible for the revitalization and promotion of downtown’s great historic district,” said Monte Jensen, DMSA president.
Festival-goers can also enjoy an array of activities throughout the day. Hands-on arts, crafts and games keep the kids busy, while local bands playing live music entertain the crowds all day long.
The fall festival atmosphere is complete with tasty eats from any of downtown’s coffee houses, candy stores, ice cream and yogurt shops, or restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.
With all the activities and entertainment, this is the ideal way to spend a weekend in Denton. General admission to the event is free. Check the website, www.dentonmainstreet.org, and go to the Events page for information and deadlines and fees for entering the car show, “Attic Treasure” information appraisal locations and guidelines, and chalk art entry rules. For directions, an event schedule, entry forms, and more about the event, please visit the website. Also, find us on Facebook at Downtown Denton – Denton Main Street Association and follow us on Twitter @DentonMSA.
Arts, Antiques & Autos is presented by the Denton Main Street Association with Denton Record-Chronicle, First United Bank, and Northstar Bank, with the support of the City of Denton, DATCU, Denton CVB, Ann & Bill Ennis, Huffines Kia/Subaru, James Wood Auto Park, and Peterbilt Motor Company.
Christine Gossett works with the Denton Main Street Association to provide information about upcoming events.
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