We’ve rolled out the red carpet for today’s Jeep Invasion segment of this year’s Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival.

Granted, the carpet is composed of fresh pavement, not red fabric. Parts might still be a little warm, too, having been hot-rolled and striped only a night or two ago. But you get the idea.

Actually, it’s a little ironic to park 1,000 Jeeps along Butler’s freshly paved Main Street tonight, only to drive them all to Cooper’s Lake the next morning and get them completely muddy.

Call it the joy of Jeeperhood.

It is now an entrenched tradition, this homecoming weekend for Jeep enthusiasts. The sixth annual Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival, which pays tribute to the birth of the Jeep 76 years ago right here in Butler, will have some unique features for 2016,

Pennzoil, the Jeep Invasion sponsor, will have a jumbotron video screen set up in front of the Butler County Courthouse. It will present a new national television commercial on the jumbotron during the Invasion, which takes place from 6 to 10 p.m.

Also, stars of CNBC’s “The Car Chasers” show, Jeff Allen and Meg Bailey, will be on hand to greet Jeep enthusiasts, sign autographs, take pictures and participate in aspects of the event.

DJs will play music throughout the night to create a festive atmosphere downtown. Food vendors also will be available at multiple locations.

Main Street and some side streets will be closed in late afternoon and evening. Traffic tie-ups and delays are to be expected. It will be a good occasion to take a stroll and see the myriad models of this uniquely American vehicle.

Come to think of it, anyone who has tried to navigate around or across Main street on a recent paving night can consider it a dress rehearsal for tonight’s main event. After all, a delay is a delay. Might as well enjoy the sights while the going is slow.

Saturday and Sunday’s focus turn to Cooper’s Lake Campground, with plenty of exhibits and activities geared to entertain the Jeep owners and spectators alike.

The Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival attracts visitors from more states than any other event in Butler County. Visitors from 30 states and Canada are registered.

“Invasion” is an fitting name for the Butler segment of this annual event — as it would be for any homecoming celebration. It’s a celebration of our heritage and a salute to our city’s contribution not only to the national victory in World War II, but also to a significant and enduring bit of our culture.

It’s a bit of inconvenience, true. But it’s also an honor and a privilege to host this prominent annual event.

Welcome, Jeepers. Have a great time while you’re here.