The countdown is on for the much-anticipated Bay to Birdwood event this weekend. The iconic parade of historic vehicles will make their way to the National Motor Museum for the ‘Finish Festival’ from 10am this Sunday, October 22nd.
As the Bay to Birdwood convoy rolls to a finish, attendees can enjoy the great atmosphere where thousands of historic motoring enthusiasts will gather to admire over 1500 classic vehicles. Adding to the charm, many drivers and passengers will be donning their finest vintage attire.
The Finish Festival which is at the end of the Bay to Birdwood parade also promises to be a feast, showcasing regional produce, local craft drinks, and street food. In the spirit of nostalgia, attendees are encouraged to don their favourite vintage threads and participate in the Fashions on the Field competition for the best period dress.
This year’s judges for the Best Male Fashion, Best Female Fashion, and Best Group Fashion categories include Brit Trueack (Dulcie’s Bus), Heather Croall (Adelaide Fringe), Nick Phillips (graphic designer), Stavroula Adameitis (Frida Las Vegas), Kelly Noble (our very own from Glam Adelaide), and Nathan James Crane (Élever).
Dulcie’s Bus, a sustainable not-for-profit bus/shop dedicated to preserving vintage threads, will also be present, offering a unique opportunity to purchase vintage clothes that mirror the eras of the showcased vehicles.
“Dulcie’s Vintage and the Bay to Birdwood share a common thread of preserving history and honoring the craftsmanship of yesteryears,” According to Brit Trueack of Dulcie’s Bus.
“Just as the vintage and classic vehicles tell stories of automotive excellence, Dulcie’s Vintage showcases the artistry and style of vintage fashion, allowing us to step into the past and experience the glamour and sophistication of a bygone era.”
Entertainment during the festival will include big band favorites from Atlantic Street Band and vintage tunes spun by DJ Driller.
The Finish Festival will also host the presentation of prestigious awards, including the Concours d’Elegance Award, the Preservation Award, and the newly introduced EV Conversion Award.
Bay to Birdwood Event Manager Dane Wilden encourages everyone to embrace this opportunity to connect with history and enjoy the stunning Adelaide Hills setting.
“It’s the perfect spring family day out, with lots of fun activities – including Fashions on the Field, some fabulous food and drink options from local caterers, and musical entertainment provided by the Atlantic Street Band with vinyl spinning by DJ Driller,” Wilden says.
Stalls at this year’s Bay to Birdwood will offer an array of delights, including Evi’s Grecian Delights, Squid Squad Seafood, Mollydooker Wines, Prancing Pony, and Soza’s Sri Lankan Street Food.
Michael Neale, Chair of the Bay to Birdwood, highlights the event’s international appeal.
“It is not unusual for the Bay to Birdwood to attract over 10% of its entries from interstate. The Finish Festival, however, is the pinnacle of their visit, a real celebration. This is probably out of relief having successfully completed what is a very demanding run in their historic vehicle. But it is also an opportunity for people to soak in the elation of being part of one of the most amazing events of its type anywhere in the world,” Neale says.
Bay to Birdwood Finish Festival
Where: National Motor Museum Birdwood, 9 Shannon St, Birdwood SA 5234
When: Sunday 22 October, 10am-5pm
Price: $31.50
Tickets: Click here
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