Experience Monterey Car Week Like an Insider

Experience Monterey Car Week Like an Insider
By Mr. Car Week

Monterey Car Week isn’t just the highlight of the year for car lovers—it’s an international bucket-list experience spread across Carmel-by-the-Sea and the whole Monterey Peninsula. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Car Week veteran, I’m here as “Mr. Car Week” to help you make the most of the 2026 festivities.

Discover the Car Week Passport

This year, enjoy seamless access to the region’s top events with the Car Week Passport—your all-access pass to multiple marquee events, VIP perks, and exclusive previews. From premium automobilia expos to private receptions, it’s the best way to experience Car Week without running around.

Premier Events in Carmel & Beyond

Car Week events are scattered across the Monterey Peninsula—from Carmel to Pebble Beach to Monterey—and each offers a unique taste of automotive culture. Here are just a few highlights:

• Prancing Ponies Women’s Car Show (Carmel): A vibrant showcase of women-owned exotic, classic, muscle, and electric vehicles—plus VIP lounge, fashion show, and mixer.
• Ferrari Owners Club Concours (Carmel): A festive lineup of rare Ferraris and Italian motorcycles, with owner interviews, music, and awards.
• Monterey British (Carmel Valley): A celebration of classic and modern British cars—Jaguars, MGs, Aston Martins, Lotuses, and more.
• The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering (Carmel Valley): A garden-party atmosphere showcasing rare automobiles and motorcycles, with curated classes and gourmet cuisine.
• Bonhams Quail Lodge Auction (Carmel): A high-stakes collector car auction featuring some of the world’s most coveted vehicles.
• Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance (Pebble Beach): The crown jewel of Car Week—an internationally renowned show of the world’s most spectacular classic cars on the 18th fairway at Pebble Beach.
• Automobilia Collectors Expo (Monterey): The premier destination for historic automobilia, rare collectibles, and auto enthusiasts from around the world.
• Concorso Italiano (Seaside): A massive celebration of Italian automotive style, featuring hundreds of Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Maseratis, and Italian motorcycles all on display with a festive Italian flair.
• The Paddock (Seaside): A Friday event where you can explore a curated RADwood display featuring 50 iconic cars from the '80s and '90s, with a DJ spinning the era’s greatest hits. Celebrate the 25th anniversary of the legendary Saleen S7, with over two dozen examples on display. Shop top automotive vendors, enjoy delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a lively atmosphere. Fans are encouraged to dress in period-correct ‘80s and ‘90s style for added fun!
• Monterey Motorsports Festival (Monterey Fairgrounds): An action-packed night festival with motorsport demonstrations, car displays, celebrity guests, and high-energy live performances—making it one of Car Week’s most dynamic after-dark experiences.

For detailed videos, photo galleries, and articles about all these events, check out the Monterey Car Week Overview.

Mr. Car Week’s Insider Tips

• Plan ahead: Car Week fills fast—stay updated with the Car Week Guide on WhatsUpMonterey.
• Arrive early: Parking fills quickly—use remote lots, rideshare, or shuttles.
• Dress smart: Summer mornings can be cool—layer up for walking events.
• Network: Car Week isn’t just about cars—it’s the people you meet.

Browse the official Car Week Guide: The WhatsUpMonterey guide is your best resource for schedules, tickets, maps, and insider tips. Browse the full Guide here.

See, Sip & Savor

After the shows, unwind with fine food and wine in Carmel’s charming restaurants and patios. Use SeeCarmel’s complete guide for dining, shopping, and lifestyle recommendations to make the most of your visit.

Want help planning VIP access, private tours, or Passport bookings? Just reach out to the SeeCarmel team—we’re revved up to help you experience the best Car Week yet.