Monterey Car Week is something very special.

To set the stage, Monterey Car Week is packed with over 50 events showcasing the world’s most beautiful and unique vehicles. It’s like the Super Bowl for car enthusiasts. Held each August in Monterey, California, 'Car Week' transforms the picturesque Pacific coastline two hours south of San Francisco. Over 10 days, more than 100,000 car enthusiasts, collectors, and automotive aficionados from around the world make the pilgrimage to this week-long celebration of the finest in automotive design, engineering, and craftsmanship.

Its origins date back to 1950, when the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, the event's crown jewel, was first held. What started as a small gathering of enthusiasts showcasing their prized vehicles has grown into a world-renowned series of events that draws tens of thousands of visitors annually. Over the years, Monterey Car Week has expanded to include a wide array of events, each catering to different aspects of car culture. From high-profile auctions and historic races to exclusive private shows and manufacturer unveilings, the week is packed with activities that appeal to every type of car lover.

This year we were back with our friends from Grand Touring Automobiles who hosted more than two dozen enthusiasts during the pinnacle weekend of Car Week, August 15th–18th.

Key Events and Highlights

Monterey Car Week is filled with a variety of events that showcase the best and most beautiful vehicles from around the globe. Some of the most notable events include:

1. The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering

Known for its exclusive atmosphere, The Quail offers a unique blend of fine automobiles, gourmet food, and a relaxed garden-party setting. Attendees can enjoy close-up views of rare classic cars, supercars, and motorcycles while mingling with celebrities, industry insiders, and fellow enthusiasts.

2. Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance

The pinnacle of Monterey Car Week, the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance is a prestigious competition where the most exquisite and rarest cars in the world are judged on their elegance, authenticity, and history. Held on the famed 18th fairway of Pebble Beach Golf Links, this event attracts top collectors and restorers who vie for the coveted 'Best of Show' award.

3. The Brand Houses

If you’re fortunate to travel with a group like Grand Touring, Canada’s leading super and hyper luxury automotive retailer, it provides VIP access to a collection of super-luxurious estates and homes transformed by brands like Automobili Pininfarina, Bentley, Bugatti, Koenigsegg, Lamborghini, Rolls-Royce, and more into pop-up brand showcases for hosting, offering test drives, and networking. They are a true highlight of the program that only a select few gain access to.

4. Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion

This event at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is a nod to the history of motorsport, featuring classic race cars from different eras competing on the challenging and historic track. It's a thrilling spectacle for those who appreciate the sights, sounds, and smells of vintage racing.

5. Car Auctions

Major auction houses such as RM Sotheby's, Gooding & Company, and Bonhams host auctions that offer rare and valuable cars, often fetching record-breaking prices. These auctions are a highlight for collectors and investors looking to acquire unique vehicles, and they provide a fascinating look at the automotive market's dynamics.

6. Concours d'Lemons

For those who prefer a more lighthearted approach to car culture, the Concours d'Lemons celebrates the oddball, mundane, and truly awful cars. It’s a fun counterpoint to the elegance of the Concours d’Elegance, focusing on the unusual and the underappreciated.

7. Concept Car Lawn

The Concept Car Lawn at Pebble Beach offers a glimpse into the future of automotive design and technology. Here, leading manufacturers and designers unveil their latest concept cars, prototypes, and cutting-edge technology, giving attendees an exclusive look at what’s coming next in the world of automobiles.

Why Monterey Car Week is a Must-Visit

Monterey Car Week isn't just for car enthusiasts—it's a cultural event that appeals to anyone who appreciates craftsmanship, innovation, and history. The event's setting along California's stunning central coast adds to its allure, with beautiful scenery providing a breathtaking backdrop. It is also a hub for networking and deal-making within the automotive industry. It's a place where enthusiasts can meet like-minded individuals, where collectors can discover their next acquisition, and where industry professionals can discuss trends and forge new relationships. Whether you're a seasoned collector, a casual fan, or someone who simply loves the beauty of well-crafted machinery, Monterey Car Week offers something for everyone.

It is honestly so much more than just a car show—it's a celebration of automotive excellence, a journey through the history and future of car culture, and an opportunity to experience some of the world's most beautiful and rare vehicles up close. Whether you're there to admire the craftsmanship, revel in the racing, or simply enjoy the unique atmosphere, Monterey Car Week is an unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting impression. For anyone passionate about cars, it’s a bucket-list event that should not be missed.