There's a Magazine called "Old Skool Rodz" that covers a lot of Rat Rodz and Rat Rodderz and Rat Rod Showz... maybe start there. Sam.
Here are a few lead's to search this site: Hunnert Pile-Up in Il, Round-Up in TX (soon), Billet Proof in MI and CA. 'Paso' in CA. Unless your state (AR) has something new, or undiscovered local wise it will take some driving to attend a 'Traditional' type event. Slang's like rat rod and ol' skool are wearing thin for some of the fellow's here. If you drop the lingo's,the response's will be greater, and positive.
Lonestar Roundup, April 2nd, lotsa cool rods & customs (cutoff of 500 for the park) of all types in one place. From all over the USA. Guaranteed to please. Come for all 3 days Friday Sat & Sun, good time around the Continental Club. It is such a big event for my wife & I that we are skipping her only niece's wedding to be there Saturday. Going to be disowned. The event is that good!!
After the Round up the Stray Kat 500 is May 6,7 & 8th To get an idea what kind of show this is, checkout the following web site. http://www.carnut.org/show/04/skat/_skatm1.html If you need more info Let me know. Happy Trails, Mick