In 1994, the
Goodie Shop Restaurant, keeping with their 50's and 60's decor, decided
to hold a
Golden Oldie Car Show to allow car enthusiasts everywhere a chance to come together and talk about
their first love: old cars. The crowd enjoyed the afternoon immensely and Rock 'N' Roll music filled the air.
In 1995, what was then the
Newcastle Business Association came on board to expand the Car Show
to a full weekend of activities and thus the
Rock 'N' Roll Weekend was born.
The first
weekend saw about 60 people involved. There are now over 200 volunteers who give freely of their time to help make the festival
a success. There are 12 members on our committee and we meet year round to ensure the continued success of this festival.
Tens of thousands of people turn out to enjoy the four day festival.
The official opening takes place Thursday
night, followed by a street dance and plenty of children's activities (
click here for full schedule). Lots of folks dress in 50's and 60's garb and young and old alike enjoy great music. The fireworks sponsored by
Tim Hortons continue to be more spectacular, some people describing them as the best in the Maritimes.
On Friday
afternoon people enjoy a scavenger hunt with a twist as they drive around the downtown area looking for antique cars during
the
"Dude, Where's My Car?" event. There are plenty of games for the children in the afternoon.
The first of our dances for adults takes place Friday night and the
Civic Centre is rockin'.
Saturday in
Queen Elizabeth Park, rock 'n' roll music fills the air as local bands
strut their stuff while shoppers keep time with the music and enjoy the sidewalk sales. The Lucky Strike game sponsored by
Atlantic Lottery raises money for various local charities each year and children take part in games and activities designed
especially for them. The cruise around the river on Saturday evening continues to draw a bigger and better response from car
owners and spectators alike. The day's festivities are capped with a dance for adults at night as folks remember an era
that lives on.
Sunday afternoon people take in the
Goodie Shop Restaurant Golden Oldie Car Show.
Over ten thousand enthusiasts come out to see more than 400 vehicles and the owners certainly enjoy showing off their babies.
With events added every year and local support at an all time high, the Rock 'N' Roll Committee continues
to focus more advertising and promotion at the tourist population. The future looks bright and enthusiasm is boundless. We
have been named one of the top ten festivals in the province on numerous occasions, a distinction of which we are very proud.
So many people are involved and we thank all who help us, our dedicated team of volunteers is the backbone of the festival.
To them we extend an extra heart felt THANK YOU.
