La Jolla Concours d’Elegance: A Celebration of Automotive Splendor

A Unique Automotive Experience

There are car shows—grand exhibitions showcasing vehicles in all their glory—and then there’s the La Jolla Concours d’Elegance. Returning from April 24–26, 2026, this iconic event is not just a display of remarkable cars; it’s a celebration of automotive history against the stunning backdrop of La Jolla’s coastline. With this year marking its 20th anniversary, expectations are high for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend.

Celebrate 20 Years of Excellence

This year’s theme, “Icons of Speed: Historically Significant Super Cars,” will feature an impressive lineup that honors vehicles of incredible distinction and performance. Expect legendary supercars that transformed the automotive landscape, historic race cars that pushed engineering boundaries, and rare vehicles that redefined speed, both on the road and the racetrack.

Curated Classes of Automotive Legends

With 16 meticulously curated classes, attendees can look forward to a dazzling array of vehicles, including:

• Pre-war classics
• American muscle cars
• Ferrari and Porsche legends
• JDM icons (Japanese Domestic Market)
• Modern hypercars
• Formula 1 racing machines

This event is not just a car show; it’s a living, breathing museum of automotive history, carefully curated for all who appreciate the art of speed.

A Full Weekend of Events

A common misconception is that the La Jolla Concours is merely a Sunday affair. In truth, this event is packed from Friday evening through Sunday evening.

Friday Night: VIP Opening Soirée (April 24)

Kick off the weekend with the Motorvault VIP Opening Soirée. Picture an enchanting evening filled with:

• Rare vintage cars displayed in an immersive, themed setting
• Gourmet offerings from top San Diego restaurants
• Crafted cocktails and live entertainment
• An ambiance reminiscent of a Gatsby-era gathering

This soirée is where luxury and nightlife intertwine—a fitting start to the exhilarating weekend ahead.

Saturday: Drives, Supercars & Street Energy (April 25)

Tour d’Elegance (Morning – Afternoon)
For the true enthusiasts, Saturday begins with the Tour d’Elegance, featuring:

• Private access to stunning car collections
• Scenic coastal drives that celebrate the beauty of La Jolla
• An intimate gathering of collectors and passionate drivers

Porsches & Power on Prospect (Evening)
Later in the day, Prospect Street transforms into an open-air showcase where car lovers can experience:

• A dazzling array of Porsches, exotics, and hypercars
• Live music and vibrant local nightlife, creating a perfect camaraderie among car enthusiasts

This evening is La Jolla’s way of morphing into a veritable playground for automotive aficionados.

Sunday: The Main Event (April 26)

The weekend reaches its pinnacle on Sunday at Ellen Browning Scripps Park, where over 200 rare and vintage automobiles congregate. Highlights include:

• Judging where expert evaluators examine each vehicle’s design, history, and craftsmanship
• An award for the coveted Best of Show, as owners proudly compete for prestige
• An idyllic coastal setting that enhances the entire experience

Adding to this grandeur is the La Jolla Motor Car Classic, which provides a community-focused showcase, ensuring that both dedicated collectors and casual fans find joy in the day’s events.

What Makes This Year Special

Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the La Jolla Concours has evolved into one of the most respected concours events in the U.S. This milestone signifies:

• A benchmark event for serious collectors and first-time attendees alike
• A unique Southern California blend of luxury and laid-back coastal vibes

G. Michael Dorvillier, the Honoree Chair, encapsulates this sentiment: the magic lies in the delicate balance between world-class automobiles, an unbeatable setting, and an experience that feels both exclusive and welcoming.

Experience the La Jolla Concours d’Elegance

With every detail designed to celebrate the best of the automotive world, the La Jolla Concours d’Elegance is an experience not to be missed. From exquisite cars to gourmet food and vibrant camaraderie among fellow enthusiasts, plan your visit for this extraordinary weekend.

Visit LaJollaConcours.com to secure your tickets today!