As we enter a new year, our thoughts turn to the 2016 events season. So grab that calendar, and prepare to note down the ‘must-attend’ meetings this year…
Rétromobile, 3-7 February 2016
The Rétromobile extravaganza has become a classic in its own right, and the Parisian event is now in its fifth decade. A quintessentially French event, from the cuisine available down to the yellow ‘headlights’ on the ceiling, it’s the perfect antidote to those New Year blues.
Goodwood 74th Members' Meeting, 19-20 March 2016
A Goodwood event with the same world-class collection of cars and racing drivers old and new as the Revival and the Festival of Speed, but with a fraction of the crowds and all-areas access – that essentially sums up the Goodwood Members’ Meeting. This year’s event will see high-speed demonstrations by Group 6 sports cars, and a Ford GT40-only dusk race. Don’t miss it.
Tour Auto Optic 2000, 18-24 April 2016
A week-long road-rally beginning in Paris and ending on the Cote d’Azur, the Tour Auto is an event for the connoisseur. Comprising ultra-desirable road-racing cars from the ’50s, ’60s and early ’70s in a host of stunning locations, if the weather plays ball, there can be few more enjoyable ways to spend an early summer’s day.
Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, 13-15 May 2016
The biennial Monaco Grand Prix Historique is a particularly glamorous affair, held on the streets of the famous principality. With a mix of seasoned racers and gentlemen drivers, the racing is fraught and packed with action, be it pre-War voiturettes or late-70s Formula 1 cars.
Mille Miglia, 19-22 May 2016
One thousand miles through Italy in your classic car, loosely tracing the route of the Mille Miglia tackled so courageously by motorsport heroes in the past – what could be better? Either compete for some silverware by sticking to the strict regularity trials, or simply take in Italy at your own pace.
Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, 20-22 May 2016
If the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique is the most glamorous historic motorsport event, Villa d’Este is by far the most glamorous concours. Steeped in history and held on the shores of Lake Como, it is an event at which to see and be seen. Sip an Aperol and soak up the intimate atmosphere.
Le Mans Classic, 8-10 July 2016
Held on the full-length Circuit de la Sarthe, just like the 24 Hours proper, the Le Mans Classic is a biennial event that sees six grids from different eras take turns to compete around the clock. This year’s event includes a dedicated Group C grid for the first time, which promises to be one of the sights and sounds of the whole year. Head to Indianapolis corner as the sun sets, and revel in one of the most visceral experiences in motorsport.
Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, 21 August 2016
The final (and arguably the best) event at the Monterey Car Week, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is probably the most prestigious concours of them all, and attracts the finest and most desirable cars from around the world. There’s also a preceding Tour d’Elegance, where the automotive entrants enjoy the world-famous roads around California, including 17-Mile Drive and Big Sur.
Concours of Elegance, 2-4 September 2016
We were the official digital media partner of the Concours of Elegance last year, and even had the privilege of judging the inaugural ‘Jaguar Trophy’. It proved to be one of the best events of 2015, as confirmed by a number of high-profile collectors and dealers in attendance. This year’s Royal concours will take place at Windsor Castle – we'll see you there.
Goodwood Revival, 9-11 September 2016
The Goodwood Revival needs no introduction. It is without doubt the finest historic motorsport meeting in the world, and a ‘must-go’ event every single year. We can’t wait to hear what Lord March and his merry band have got in store for us this year.
Photos: Rémi Dargegen, Peter Aylward, Tim Brown, Cathy Dubuisson, Tom Shaxson
You can find cars eligible for all these events listed for sale in the Classic Driver Market.
