A Guide to 5 Automotive Events in North America

North America is an active center for automotive enthusiasts, offering a variety of experiences from races to classic car showcases and large public gatherings. For individuals interested in car culture, there is a big range in North American car events, from races to cars and coffee, there are various opportunities for spotting and engaging. This guide provides information on five such events that represent different facets of the automotive world.

Quick Answers

• What kinds of events are featured? This guide includes an event for classic cars, established open-wheel and endurance races, a large public cruise focused on classic car culture, and a Formula 1 Grand Prix.
• Are these events typically annual? Yes, all the events listed are generally held annually, though specific dates can vary from year to year.
• Where are these North American events located? They take place in various locations, including California, Indiana, Florida, and Michigan in the USA, and Montreal in Canada.
• Who might find these events interesting? The selected events offer experiences that can appeal to a range of automotive enthusiasts, including those interested in automotive history, motorsport, current racing technology, or general car culture.
• Are tickets required for these events? Generally, tickets are needed for entry into the main event areas, particularly for races and concours d'elegance. Some events, like the Woodward Dream Cruise, offer substantial free public viewing opportunities along their routes.

Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance (Pebble Beach, California, USA)

Held annually in August as a central part of Monterey Car Week, the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance is a well-regarded classic car show. Located on the 18th fairway of the Pebble Beach Golf Links, this event assembles a collection of rare and historically relevant automobiles. Vehicles are judged based on their historical accuracy, technical merit, and overall presentation. In addition to the judged competition, the event often features displays of concept cars, new vehicle introductions from luxury manufacturers, and attracts collectors and enthusiasts. Attending Pebble Beach provides an opportunity to view well-maintained examples of automotive design and history.

Indianapolis 500 (Speedway, Indiana, USA)

Referred to by many as "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing," the Indianapolis 500 is a long-running American open-wheel race held annually over Memorial Day weekend at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. First held in 1911, it is one of the oldest automobile races globally and is part of the informal Triple Crown of Motorsport. The event is known for its traditions, such as the pre-race ceremonies and the winner drinking milk. The scale of the speedway, the speeds achieved by the cars on the 2.5-mile oval, and the large attendance create an energetic atmosphere. It is a significant event in American motorsport culture.

Rolex 24 At Daytona (Daytona Beach, Florida, USA)

The Rolex 24 At Daytona, typically held in late January or early February, is a prominent endurance sports car race in North America. Taking place at the Daytona International Speedway on its combined road course and high-banked oval, this 24-hour race challenges drivers, teams, and their vehicles. A varied field of GT cars and prototype race cars compete continuously, often through changing weather conditions. The event usually offers good paddock access, allowing attendees to see the teams and cars up close. It is a test of endurance, strategy, and reliability, attracting skilled drivers from various racing disciplines.

Woodward Dream Cruise (Metro Detroit, Michigan, USA)

The Woodward Dream Cruise, occurring on the third Saturday of August, is a large-scale celebration of classic car culture and Detroit's automotive manufacturing history. It is described as one of the world's largest one-day automotive events, featuring tens of thousands of classic cars, hot rods, custom vehicles, and muscle cars driving along a 16-mile section of Woodward Avenue. Large numbers of spectators line the route. While the official event is on Saturday, related activities often occur throughout the preceding week. Much of the event is free to observe from the roadside, offering a comprehensive display of American automotive history.

SEMA Show (Las Vegas, USA)

A trade-only event for the Specialty Equipment Market Association, this is a large automotive specialty products trade show displaying aftermarket modifications, custom vehicles, and new automotive products. The SEMA Show, an acronym for the Specialty Equipment Market Association Show, takes place annually in Las Vegas, Nevada, and functions as a trade-only event for the automotive aftermarket industry. It provides a platform for manufacturers to exhibit new specialty products, custom vehicle builds, and emerging automotive technologies, thereby serving as an indicator of trends within the vehicle customization and aftermarket sectors. 

Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (Colorado, USA)

A hill climb event where drivers compete against the clock on a paved course leading to the summit of Pikes Peak.the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, held in Colorado and often referred to as "The Race to the Clouds," is an annual invitational motorsport event. This competition challenges participants to drive against the clock on a 12.42-mile paved course with 156 turns, ascending to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak, which tests both vehicle performance and driver skill under unique high-altitude conditions.