Lockhart was named by the Texas Legislature as the BBQ Capital Of Texas, making it a must visit destination. Visitors to Lockhart will have little trouble finding something do whether it’s taking a tasting tour of the city’s four famous barbecue restaurants or getting to know the community at one of its major festivals.
Hot Rods and Hatters has become one of the largest events in the region in only six years. The event attracted around 500 people during the initial celebration, and this year planners expect over 30,000 people in attendance. This event is a unique expression of Rockabilly culture that offers something for everyone. Patrons will have the opportunity to see more 850 hot rods lining the streets and filling parking lots across a 30-block section of Lockhart. A variety of unique items are available at a vendor market and there are plenty of fun games to try as well. Three separate concert stages will feature a variety of music from national and local music acts. Hot Rods and Hatters also strives to support the community with proceeds going to multiple charities including Seton Care-A-Van, Pink Heals, Downtown Revitalization Committee, and Lockhart Area Music Association. ResortsandLodges.com got the opportunity to interview Joel Aaron Gammage, producer of the event, to talk about this massive celebration.
RAL: How long has the event been running?
JAG: This will be the sixth year of Hot Rods and Hatters. Though traditionally the event has only been one day, this year will mark the first year we extend to two days. We plan to offer a free drive-in style movie area which will also feature a picnic section, where folks can bring their lawn chairs.
RAL: How many annual participants do you draw?
JAG: We have grown steadily each year. Last year we had over 30,000 attendees and 886 cars on display.
RAL: What makes this event unique?
JAG: Our combination of Rockabilly inspired culture with Hot Rod cars and three live music stages at each end of 30 city blocks.
RAL: What activities will attendees find?
JAG: We have a lot of activities for people to enjoy.
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Free Live Music
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Vendors
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Games
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Tour Shuttles
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Tours of the four World Class BBQ Restaurants in Lockhart.
RAL: Will there be any guest appearances?
JAG: In 2016, we had guest appearances from the Circuit of the Americas Indy Race Car, a MotoGP bike, and a surprise appearance from Jesse James of Orange County Choppers.
RAL: What dining options will be available?
JAG: As Lockhart is the BBQ Capital of Texas, there are four prominent barbecue restaurants located near the downtown area. Attendees will find various other local restaurants in the downtown area, it’s not only BBQ.
RAL: Are there any lodging specials that are set up specifically for the event?
JAG: Yes, Best Western, Plum Creek Inn, and Lockhart Inn will offer discounts when you mention Hot Rods and Hatter's. We have a room special at the LaQuinta Inn and Suites in Luling (a 20-minute drive from Lockhart).
RAL: What does this event mean to the community?
JAG: Lockhart only has a handful of major events in the downtown area. Hot Rods and Hatters is free to enter and offers great music and a full day of activities.
RAL: Does this drive business to your local economy?
JAG: Yes, most definitely! Reports have come back from all four of the local BBQ restaurants stating that they've sold out of certain items of BBQ during the day.
RAL: Does the event support a special cause in the community?
JAG: We partner with the following organizations for this event:
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Seton Care-A-Van is a mobile hospital that provides free healthcare to Caldwell County and other rural communities surrounding Lockhart Texas.
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Pink Heals creates awareness about breast cancer and helps provide support for families of individuals going through breast cancer and other types of cancer treatments.
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Downtown Revitalization Committee is a branch of the city of Lockhart. The organization receives donations from soda and water sales generated at the event. These funds go towards funding infrastructure programs to revitalize and develop the economic growth of downtown Lockhart.
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Lockhart Area Music Association (LAMA) is a nonprofit based organization which helps local musicians that are transitioning to Lockhart. It helps them find various musical platforms, and it's a system that helps promote and facilitate music and entertainment in the Lockhart community.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
JAG: It's an experience where everyone walks away feeling like they were a part of something much more than just a traditional community event. Hot Rods and Hatters will go down in Caldwell County history as the largest event in Lockhart.
For more information about Hot Rod and Hatter, please visit their website.