It's been said that April showers bring May flowers, but for Austin, Texas, April means only one thing: the return of the well-loved Lone Star Round Up presented by the Kontinentals car club. This rat-rod-lover's paradise is now in its seventh year, each year getting bigger and better.
The weekend got started on Friday April 4, with the opening of the swap meet and vending areas at the Travis County Expo Center. Not only was it the perfect place to pick up some much needed parts at a great price, but it was a perfect opportunity to sample a wide range of Texas cuisine. Hungry spectators and participants alike could feast on anything from fried alligator to turkey legs, Wahoo's fish tacos, funnel cake, snow cones, roasted corn on the cob, fajitas, hot dogs, and more. Of course, there was plenty of Lone Star beer to wash it all down. You could even enjoy music while you dined, from such bands as the Saddle Tramps, High School Ceasar, and Wayne "The Train" Hancock.
On Saturday, we headed to the Expo center to check out the killer American hot rods and customs. Registered vehicles included a wide variety of rides from 1963 to older models. We saw fully restored coupes, rusted wagons, beaten trucks, and even a bus with a lot of character. It was a wonderful experience to take in all the unique beauty of the rockabilly culture. In the vending area, spectators were treated to a wide selection of apparel and gorgeous hot-rod art. Bernie Ramirez was there with his unbelievable paintings. You could even have your hair styled by a barber or a stylist who created beautiful classic pin-up style hairdos for the ladies.
We also had the chance to watch several pinstriping artists hard at work on vehicles in the show. It takes a lot of talent to create such excellent designs, especially under the pressure of a live audience. Further adding to the fun atmosphere, on Saturday we were treated to the live sounds of the Leroi Bros, James Hand, Doyle Bramhall, and the legendary James Burton with special guest James Intveld.
Sunday concluded the Lone Star Round Up with a scenic cruise to Ski Shores in Austin's renowned hill country.
Considering the perfect weather, cool hot rods, great food, talented bands, and fun people, it's easy to see why this show is such a favorite of Texans and automotive fanatics from all over the country.