ABOUT THE CONCOURS

Imagine a picturesque weekend getaway on the idyllic shores of Amelia Island, Florida. Each year, during the second weekend of March, automotive enthusiasts and aficionados gather at The Ritz-Carlton for an extraordinary event known as the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. It's not just any car show; it's a charitable affair that blends the elegance of automotive design with a spirit of giving. Renowned for its charm and sophistication, the Amelia Island Concours holds a special place among the nation's top-tier automotive gatherings. In fact, a recent article in The New York Times spotlighted it alongside prestigious events like Pebble Beach in California, Meadow Brook in Michigan, and the Louis Vuitton Classic in the heart of Manhattan. It's not just about showcasing classic cars; it's about celebrating the stories they carry and the passions they ignite...

Every year, the Amelia Island Concours brings together enthusiasts to celebrate the fascinating world of motorsports. It's not just about admiring classic cars; it's a lively gathering that pays homage to outstanding individuals, iconic manufacturers, and captivating themes. From honoring motorsports legends to spotlighting featured marques, each event is a thrilling blend of tradition and innovation. Throughout the weekend, attendees are treated to a diverse range of activities. From swinging clubs on the golf course to bidding at prestigious automobile auctions, there's something for everyone. Art and fashion shows add a touch of elegance, while dinners with esteemed guests create memorable moments. And let's not forget the excitement of silent auctions, charity raffles, and autograph sessions, where fans can connect with their heroes.Of course, the highlight of the concours is the prestigious awards ceremony. From the coveted Best of Show Concours d'Elegance to the thrilling Best of Show Concours de Sport, the competition is fierce. Corporate awards, vehicle class distinctions, and special recognitions, like the esteemed People's Choice award, add to the excitement. It's a celebration where passion meets excellence, leaving a lasting impression on all who attend.

1962 Ferrari 250 GTO
Best in Show - Ferrari 250 Competition Cars
(image courtesy of ​ameliaconcours.com/event/winners)

EVENT HISTORY

Bill Warner was a seasoned businessman and devoted car enthusiast with a rich history in the automotive world. Having been a photographer and writer for Road & Track magazine since 1971, Warner was no stranger to the allure of classic cars. It was in 1996, spurred on by fellow auto aficionados in northeast Florida, that he decided to bring the magic of a premier classic car show to the Sunshine State. Drawing inspiration from the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in California, Warner envisioned an event that would capture the essence of elegance and philanthropy. Thus, the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance was born. Warner, deeply touched by the care his family received from Community Hospice of Northeast Florida, chose the organization as the beneficiary of the event—a heartfelt gesture that would resonate with attendees for years to come. 

The inaugural event took place on April 6, 1996, at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island. With 163 remarkable cars on display and an enthusiastic crowd of around 2,200, it was a promising start. As word spread, so did the event's popularity. By 1999, attendance had swelled to 8,500, showcasing 205 exquisite automobiles and raising an impressive $268,000 for Community Hospice.Recognition soon followed, with The New York Times featuring a full-page article by Keith Martin, highlighting the event's commitment to excellence. Warner's vision had indeed struck a chord, with the Amelia Island Concours emerging as a beacon of automotive prestige in the region, proudly sponsored by Mercedes-Benz. 

In 2021, the event saw significant changes, with a shift from March to May and a notable acquisition by Hagerty—a testament to its enduring legacy and ongoing evolution. Despite the changes, one thing remains constant: the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance continues to captivate enthusiasts and support a noble cause, promising an unforgettable experience for all who attend.

1947 Delahaye 135MS Narval Cabriolet
Best in Show - European Classic Open 1915-1948
(image courtesy of ​ameliaconcours.com/event/winners)

THIS YEAR'S EVENTS

The 2024 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance, held from February 29 to March 3, showcased a stunning array of vintage and modern vehicles, highlighting the automotive industry's rich history and innovation. Among the notable highlights were the awarding of Best in Show to a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO and a 1947 Delahaye 135MS Narval Cabriolet, underscoring the event's prestige and the exceptional quality of the vehicles on display​​.

Rick Hendrick, a luminary in the NASCAR world, was the honoree for this year's event. Celebrating 40 years of Hendrick Motorsports, the show field on Sunday presented vehicles from Hendrick's collection, including notable race cars and the "Days Of Thunder" movie car, a 1990 Chevrolet Lumina​​. The event's schedule was packed with various activities beyond the main show, attracting car enthusiasts from all corners of the globe. Highlights included three collector car auctions presented by Broad Arrow, Gooding & Company, and Bonhams, which are pivotal events for investors and collectors looking to acquire unique and valuable automobiles​​.
 
In addition to the auctions, the event featured five car shows on Friday and Saturday, offering a range of vehicles from Concours d'Elegance collector cars displayed downtown to the Classic Motorsports Amelia Island Kickoff and the playful Concours d’LeMons. These shows provided attendees with a diverse automotive experience, from high-end collector vehicles to more accessible and entertaining displays​​.The 2024 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance not only celebrated automotive excellence through its awards and displays but also fostered a community of car enthusiasts through its extensive range of events and activities. This year's concours set a high bar for future events, blending the allure of automotive history with the excitement of contemporary car culture.