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NATCHEZ — Classic cars of various makes and models are expected to line up on the bluff the weekend of April 18 through 20 for the Natchez Concours D’elegance car show.

The event is a continuation of the Euro-fest, which long-time participant and member of Southern Delta Region Rolls-Royce Owners Club Richard Branyan “took the wheel” of organizing in 2023, he said.

This marks the second year since he continued the show and the ninth year of the festival overall after COVID-19 and a couple of bad weather cancelations.

Branyan said this year’s event is already filling up and there are always a few last-minute show-ups if the weather is right.

“Year two is so far going well and I hope for good weather,” he said. “We have about 74 entered at the moment, including over 30 Rolls and Bentleys, a handful of Ferraris, Porches, and little British cars, Japanese cars, and a lot of good classes of Audis and Volkswagens. It’s a good mix of cars.”

Participation and spectating in the show are both free, he said, adding the only paid parts are booking a hotel room for out-of-town visitors and then a closing dinner at 6 p.m. on Saturday, April 20, at the Carriage House Restaurant at Stanton Hall. Tickets to the dinner are $100.

Those interested in either should “book quickly,” Branyan said. “I’ve got about 15 spots left” in the closing dinner, which is large enough for 100 people.

Visit natchezconcours.com for more information and to download and complete the registration form.

“Please fill out the registration form,” Branyan said, even if for those who don’t want to participate in the closing dinner. The first 100 people who sign up receive a free participation ribbon and a name tag.

The kick-off begins on Thursday, April 18, with a drive from Natchez to St. Francisville and back again and a welcome party.

Then cars will start lining up on Broadway Street for the weekend. Spectators can come enjoy a sneak preview of the show on Friday, April 19, with about two-thirds of the vehicles already there and listen to live music during Live@Five at the bandstand, Branyan said.

The main event Saturday, April 20, lasts from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Broadway Street. The weekly Farmer’s Market continues during the festival and lasts until noon, he said.

Near the end of the show, more than 30 trophies will be divided amongst the winners. Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson will present an award as well.

Branyan also thanked event sponsors, including Visit Natchez, the City of Natchez and Concordia Bank & Trust.