The 16th annual Ararat Jailhouse Rock Festival is ready to hit Ararat with another big program of rock ‘n’ roll, hotrods, classic cars, dance and entertainment for all ages.
Event organiser Bernadine Street said the Ararat Jukebox Art Show was now on display at Ararat Regional Art Gallery, with entries depicting songs from the 50s and 60s era.
“Judging has been completed and winners will be announced at the festival launch on March 10 at Ararat Regional Art Gallery,” she said.
Mrs Street said Thursday’s big night out at the Astor Cinema started with hotdogs and jukebox music. Winners would be announced for the school art competition with great prizes up for grabs from Toyworld.
Mrs Streeter said Friday was traditionally the day hotrods and classic cars started arriving in Ararat.
“Entries for the hotrod run are rolling in and we are expecting a lot of old favorites plus some new cars that haven't been to the festival before,” she said.
“We are continuing with the cruise night and Ballarat Band the Shy Boys will be playing in the Town Hall.
“The Ararat RSL is also featuring a live band and dinner dance.”
Mrs Streeter said on Saturday both ends of Barkly Street would be closed to through traffic but open to live music, dancing, hotrods, classic cars, motorbikes, memorabilia and food stalls.
“Festival Readings have had great entries and will be at the Shire Hotel, Psycho Bikes and the Police Identification program will be in the town hall square and the Jamm Session is again on the Truck trailer near Queen St and will play through the afternoon,” she said.
Mrs Streeter said the Saturday night hotrod dance would be held at the YMCA, with the Fender Benders and The Cruisers playing at the town hall and live bands in hotels along the street.
Mrs Streeter said the festival would culminate on Sunday at Alexandra Oval.
“It will all come together at Alexandra oval with cars, motorbikes, rock ‘n’ roll music and dance,” she said.
“The tattoo show is expecting bigger entries than last year, so come and enjoy the fun.
“Rest assured, we have the same great program, with accommodation booked out and everyone anxiously awaiting the 16th annual Jailhouse Rock Festival.”