Stocks of feather boas and bow ties will be running low in Hawke's Bay as the region gets into Art Deco Weekend.

Around 40,000 people will visit the bay from today, as they take part in more than 200 events over four days.

Art Deco Trust general manager Sally Jackson says they make sure the event never gets stale, by introducing events every year.

"Got the 'Death by Chocolate' event, which is one that is hilarious at the funeral parlour. It's hosted by 11 undertakers from across the country who have also brought in their vintage herses."

Jackson says people are amazed at how the cities transform.

"It's like stepping onto a film set and just going back in time."