The classic, hot rod and custom cars, trucks and motorcycles may be at the center of the arts and antiques at the Denton Arts, Antiques & Autos (AAA) event this Saturday, September 12th, but there is also plenty to see and do for the artist, antique collector and anyone interested in a day of fun in downtown. The event is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., around the historic Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square, 110 W. Hickory Street.
This festival expects to showcase approximately 200 or more cars, trucks and motorcycles whose owners are competing for numerous awards, including the coveted Best of Show Award, first place in the original or modified category for each class, or a participant’s choice award. The specialty awards are also a highlight of the show as these awards are made from old auto parts and are hand-painted by local artists, serving as an artistic treasure for the winners.
Festival attendees can stroll through this family-friendly event and can pick up a ballot at the information booth to vote on their favorite vehicles, too, choosing winners for six whimsical awards, such as Best “Family Truckster” and Best “Mid-Life Crisis Car,” among others. Other interactive festival activities include “Attic Treasure” information appraisals, Chalk Fest, arts & crafts vendors, a silent auction, drawing with chalk on a car, and kids’ craft activities.
The Chalk Art Fest Contest attracts artists of all ages sketching fabulous chalk drawings on the West Oak Street sidewalks – a must-see during and after the event. Winners in four age categories can walk away with some cash prizes and the top winner of the competition gets $150 cash. More information on entry fees and applications are available on the website. Pre-registration is encouraged.
The arts and antiques abound at this event and festival-goers shop and stroll through fine arts and crafts vendor booths, as well as the specialty boutiques, vintage stores, art galleries and studios in downtown Denton. The antique collector, or someone who inherited something unusual, can learn some fast facts about that special antique or heirloom in the “Attic Treasure” information appraisals. These 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, and general antiques. (Limit 3 items. No furniture or photos of items please). Appraisals are $5 per item or 3 for $10 and appraisal tickets can be purchased on event day at the Information Booth on the corner of lawn at Locust and Hickory.
The silent auction inside the courthouse will offer a chance to bid on some nice items ranging from downtown merchant goods and restaurant certificates to local entertainment packages.
Festival-goers can also enjoy live music played by local bands throughout the day on the courthouse lawn featuring: Jeff Glover and Joe Pat Hennen; Woody’s Rampage; and High School Caesar. And, the fall festival atmosphere is complete with tasty treats from any of downtown’s coffee houses, candy stores, ice cream shops, restaurants and vendors selling a variety of cuisines and festival foods.
General admission to the event is free. Check the Events page on the website, www.dentonmainstreet.org, for information, entry deadlines and fees for entering a vehicle in the car show or entering the Chalk Fest.
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