Hot rods, poodle skirts, good music, and carnival eats — could there be anything better? For four days, Reno’s Grand Sierra Resort transforms into the premier destination for lovers of classic cars and rock ’n’ roll.

“It’s an event that you have to go to at least once, regardless of who you are, but if you love automobiles then it’s something you have to go to every year,” said Chris Abraham, vice president of marketing at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino. “The event is unparalleled, really, when it comes to a celebration of old and classic automobiles.”

Thousands of slick rides will cruise through the Grand Sierra parking lot and be parked on display, with their owners available to mingle and talk shop with admirers.

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From Tuesday through Saturday, cars will be judged between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. each day, where expert judges will pick a best of show and four runners-up.

Winners get $500, while runners-up get $250 leading up to the grand finale on Saturday, Agu. 12., when the best cars go head-to-head for a grand prize of $4,000.

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Between showing beautiful classic cars, live entertainment will take to the large outdoor stage.

“This is the most exciting Hot August Nights entertainment lineup ever,” Abraham said.

“At the headquarter hotel we strive to provide the best entertainment and will have a DJ every day, an opening band at 5 p.m., and the headliner band at 8:15 p.m.,” he said.

Guests can enjoy live music from a Journey tribute band, Johnny Rivers, Rick Springfield, and closing the event will be Joan Jett & the Blackhearts.

“The best part is that all of the entertainment is free,” Abraham said.

“We have a huge stage in the parking lot, you can bring your lawn chair, there are a ton of vendors with food, beverage, and all sorts of Hot August Nights items for sale.”

One Reno local mother, Sanam Kowalski, said she’s excited to check out Hot August Nights this month with her husband and their daughter.

“I absolutely love Hot August Nights because I’ve been going since I was little, and I’m excited for Hayden to experience it,” she said about bringing her little girl to the show for the first time.

“I think it’s great to be able to bring history to life with classic and antique cars. I’m excited to see what will be out there this year!” she said.

Cassandra Walker is a features and entertainment reporter for the Sierra Sun. She can be reached at cwalker@sierrasun.com, 530-550-2654 or @snow1cass.