Monterey Car Week is one of the most anticipated automotive events of the year, attracting car enthusiasts, collectors, and industry experts from around the world. This week-long celebration of classic, exotic, and luxury automobiles features an incredible lineup of events, from historic car races to exclusive auctions and elegant concours d’elegance.
If you’re planning to attend Monterey Car Week 2025, here’s everything you need to know about the most exciting events happening between August 8 and August 17, 2025.
1. Monterey Car Week Kick-Off
Date: Friday, August 8, 2025
Location: Alvarado Street, Monterey, CA
The festivities begin with the Monterey Car Week Kick-Off, an exciting street festival featuring over 30 historic race cars displayed along Alvarado Street. Attendees can meet the drivers, hear the roar of engines, and admire these rare automobiles up close. With live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities, it’s the perfect way to start the week.
2. Monterey Pre-Reunion
Dates: Saturday and Sunday, August 9-10, 2025
Location: WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
The Monterey Pre-Reunion provides a rare opportunity to watch over 300 historic race cars take to the legendary Laguna Seca track before the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion. This event offers a more relaxed atmosphere than the main race weekend, allowing attendees to explore the paddocks, interact with drivers, and witness vintage cars in action.
3. Automobilia Collectors Expo
Dates: Monday to Wednesday, August 11-13, 2025
Location: Embassy Suites, Seaside, CA
For those who appreciate rare automotive memorabilia, the Automobilia Collectors Expo is a must-visit. With over 45 international dealers, attendees can browse and purchase vintage posters, racing gear, rare books, model cars, and more. This is an incredible opportunity to add unique automotive treasures to your collection.
4. Carmel-by-the-Sea Concours on the Avenue
Date: Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Location: Downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea
This event transforms the charming streets of Carmel-by-the-Sea into an open-air museum of stunning automobiles. Featuring multi-marque displays of classic, sports, and luxury cars, the Concours on the Avenue is a delightful blend of automotive beauty and coastal ambiance.
5. The Little Car Show
Date: Wednesday, August 13, 2025
Location: Lighthouse Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA
A unique event dedicated to microcars and compact vehicles, The Little Car Show showcases cars with an engine displacement of 1,601cc or less. Expect to see vintage Minis, Fiat 500s, BMW Isettas, and other small yet mighty machines. It’s a fun and quirky event that highlights the creativity and efficiency of compact cars.
6. Pebble Beach Tour d’Elegance
Date: Thursday, August 14, 2025
Location: Starting at Pebble Beach, traveling through the Monterey Peninsula
The Pebble Beach Tour d’Elegance is a breathtaking driving event where Concours d’Elegance participants showcase their classic cars on a scenic tour around the Monterey Peninsula. The route includes the famous 17-Mile Drive and stops in Carmel-by-the-Sea, where the public can admire these rare and historic vehicles before they return to Pebble Beach.
7. The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering
Date: Friday, August 15, 2025
Location: Quail Lodge & Golf Club, Carmel Valley, CA
One of the most exclusive events of Monterey Car Week, The Quail offers an intimate setting where guests can enjoy an up-close look at rare automobiles while indulging in gourmet food and fine wines. This event is known for showcasing rare sports and racing cars, concept vehicles, and special automotive unveilings. Tickets are extremely limited and sell out quickly.
8. Exotics on Broadway
Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
Location: Broadway Avenue, Seaside, CA
A high-energy event featuring modern supercars and hypercars, Exotics on Broadway is a dream destination for fans of Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren, Bugatti, and more. This free event attracts thousands of spectators eager to see the latest in exotic automotive design. Expect high-performance cars, live entertainment, and an electric atmosphere.
9. Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion
Dates: August 14-17, 2025
Location: WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
The Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion is one of the highlights of the week, where historically significant race cars return to the track for competitive racing. Witness legendary cars from Ferrari, Porsche, McLaren, and other manufacturers battle it out on the famous Laguna Seca circuit, including the thrilling Corkscrew turn.
10. Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance
Date: Sunday, August 17, 2025
Location: The Lodge at Pebble Beach
The grand finale of Monterey Car Week, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is the most prestigious car show in the world. Featuring pristine classic automobiles, meticulously judged for their authenticity and elegance, this event is a must-see for any automotive enthusiast. The competition includes categories such as Pre-War Classics, Post-War Sports Cars, and Concept Cars, with the coveted Best of Show award being the ultimate prize.
Tips for Attending Monterey Car Week 2025
- Book Early: Hotels and event tickets sell out months in advance.
- Dress Smartly: Many events, especially Pebble Beach Concours, have a dress code.
- Plan Your Schedule: With so many events happening, prioritize the ones that interest you the most.
- Bring a Camera: The photo opportunities are endless!
- Stay Hydrated & Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, so come prepared.
Final Thoughts
Monterey Car Week 2025 promises an unforgettable celebration of automotive history, luxury, and performance. Whether you’re a fan of classic cars, supercars, or historic racing, this event has something for everyone. Mark your calendar and get ready for a week of automotive excellence!
For more details and ticket information, visit Monterey Car Week Official Website.
Also check out events at Las Vegas Car Museums in 2025
