Cars and Guitars Returns to Downtown Hartwell with Exciting New Additions

HARTWELL, GA — Hartwell’s beloved Cars and Guitars Festival rolls back into town on Friday, May 24, and this year’s event promises more music, more cars, and more fun for the whole family.

Festivities begin at 10 a.m. with an opening ceremony featuring the presentation of the colors by the VFW and JROTC. The National Anthem will be performed instrumentally by Jackson Ford on guitar, setting the tone for a day full of high-octane excitement and community spirit.

One of this year’s biggest updates is a new seating and dining area at the north end of Forest Avenue, where guests can relax, enjoy live music, and grab a bite to eat. The street will be lined with vendors, ending at Rolling Chefs, who will be offering specials and live music throughout the day. A bounce house and kids’ activities will also be located on Forest Avenue, helping open up more space for cars — an important addition, as last year’s show was so popular that some vehicles had to be turned away.

This year, cars will be displayed along the entirety of Franklin Street, allowing for even more impressive vehicles to join the show. Also new this year are 18 additional awards across all the traditional car show categories. Highlights include the McGee Best in Show Award, presented by McGee Heating and Air, this year’s event sponsor, and a Kid’s Choice Award, letting young festivalgoers pick their favorite car.

As always, attendees will vote for their top three vehicles with 10 People’s Choice Awards up for grabs. In total, 28 awards will be presented, making this year’s festival the most competitive yet.

Throughout the day, enjoy live music at participating downtown venues, including Rolling Chefs, Southern Hart Brewing Co., and Common Ground. The festival area will also be filled with classic tunes curated by legendary car show DJ Tommy Landrum, providing the perfect soundtrack for a day of chrome and community.

For more information, call 706-376-8590 or visit DiscoverHartwell.com.