IT MIGHT be reverting to its former location for old time's sake, but there will be nothing old or routine about this year's Mardi Gras.

The popular street party will kick off Warwick's famous rodeo this Friday at 5.30pm and will shift back to its pride of place outside the Town Hall.

Warwick Tourism and Events CEO Tracy Vellacott said she hoped to see a lot of people celebrating what is the biggest time on the local calendar year.

"We'd love for people to bring their folding chair along and plonk it down in front of the Town Hall to watch the entertainment," she said.

"People can come and go as they please - we just want that sense of community in the central block of town and for everyone to have a great time."

Some of the rides to liven things up include merry-go-rounds, jumping castles, super slide, cup and saucer rides, super swings and motorised cars on a track. For those who want to really get into the spirit of the rodeo, there will be a mechanical bull as well.

Additionally, there will be a variety of food stalls - from the popular Rotary barbecue to the custom dagwood dogs shop - as well as entertainment from local dance groups, bands and the field of contenders for the Buchner Family Celebrity Horse Race, starting at 7pm.

Special guests this year are the Walmsley Brothers, along with local country band Wanted - Dead or Alive.

Some local eateries that will stay open along Palmerin St, include Bellevue Cafe, Lorraine's, Mussels and Bryson's. There, families will be able to enjoy a quieter place to have dinner or a milkshake.

With the possibility of showers forecast, Mrs Vellacott urged people to ignore threatening clouds and head down regardless.

"Unless there's torrential rain we'll still hold it," she said.

"Wind was a factor for one several years ago, but we're holding out for good weather.

"(If it does rain) some of the stallholders may opt out but there will still be a lot of rides on. We'll just have to make the best of what we get."

Palmerin St, between Albert and Grafton Sts, will be closed from 2pm to allow rides and stalls to be set up for the evening. Motorists are asked to move their cars by 1.30pm.

Car parking will be available behind the Town Hall, behind Target, and other places such as Grafton and Albert Sts.

The Mardi Gras will run from 5.30pm to 9-9.30pm.