la-jolla

LA JOLLA CONCOURS d'ELEGANCE

Ellen Browning Scripps Park , La Jolla, CA

Earning the reputation as one of the finest internationally renowned classic automobile showcases in the United States, the La Jolla Concours continues to attract discerning car enthusiasts from around the globe. Every classic car admirer dreams of going to the Pebble Beach Concours but finds it cost prohibitive. A far less costly option can be found at the La Jolla Concours held each April on a stretch of grass overlooking probably the most beautiful cove in California, at the famed La Jolla Cove. The concours attracts classics but in contrast to Pebble Beach, the cars are more affordable classics, and are mostly postwar.

The 15th annual La Jolla Concours D’Elegance was held on April 14th and it had 130 one-of-a-kind classic and exotic automobiles. Located in the Ellen Browning Scripps Park at the La Jolla Cove, it is perhaps one of the most scenic car shows’ that you’ll ever attend, with waves crashing, palm trees blowing in the breeze, and sea lions & seals swimming next to snorkelers and tourists nearby. La Jolla is one of the most prestigious (and wealthiest) cities in not only California, but the US, so it’s not surprising that the cars found here are truly special.

Each year there is a different featured marque and incredible diversity from the previous year, despite the large amount of So Cal and San Diego locals who bring their cars. This year the featured marque was Cadillac, along with a “100 years of Bentley” display. There was a ton of variety, but every car was nearly flawless in finish and the passion of the owners was evident.

The variety was the best part of the show. There were vintage race cars, luxury town cars, and so much more, but they all had one thing in common – a Concours winning attention to detail. Being “Concours” level means it undergoes the strictest judging of any car show possible. The judges will go over every inch of the car to make sure the turn signals work, everything is clean, it is period correct/original, etc. in order to make sure the car is absolutely perfect. The judging happens on the day of the concours until about 2 pm, where the judges then pick three winners in each class, as well as the “Best in Show.”

They have really expanded this event to be a whole weekend experience starting with Friday night’s classic cocktail party and not winding down until late Sunday afternoon after the concours concludes. Overall it was another gorgeous, sunny day filled with good times that were had by all. Mark your calendar for next year’s event as it will surely be an event to attend.