Pebble Beach and Monterey Car Week is a world-renowned event that brings together car enthusiasts, collectors, and manufacturers from around the globe. The 2024 edition promises to be even more spectacular, with a lineup of exclusive unveilings, vintage car auctions, and glamorous parties. This live blog will cover every aspect of the event, from the grand tours to the Concours d’Elegance, providing real-time updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into one of the most prestigious automotive gatherings in the world.
Day 1: The Kick-Off
Morning: Arrival and Anticipation
The air is thick with excitement as car aficionados and collectors arrive at Monterey. The streets are lined with luxury vehicles, and the atmosphere is electric. The opening day sets the tone for the week, with attendees eagerly discussing the latest models and speculating about the rare cars that will be showcased.
Mid-Morning: The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering
One of the highlights of the first day is The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering. This exclusive event is an elegant garden party with an impressive display of rare automobiles. This year, the focus is on the evolution of supercars, with a special section dedicated to hybrid and electric models. Attendees are treated to gourmet cuisine and fine wines as they admire the cars on display.
Afternoon: Manufacturer Unveilings
Several car manufacturers choose Monterey Car Week to unveil their latest models. This year, luxury brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Aston Martin are expected to reveal new limited-edition models. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation as these world premieres are closely guarded secrets until the last moment.
Evening: Welcome Gala
The day concludes with a lavish welcome gala at one of the iconic hotels in Pebble Beach. The event is attended by celebrities, car collectors, and industry insiders. It’s a night of networking, where the who’s who of the automotive world come together to celebrate the start of this iconic week.
Day 2: The Auctions Begin
Morning: RM Sotheby’s Auction Preview
The second day kicks off with a preview of the RM Sotheby’s auction, one of the most anticipated events of the week. The preview showcases an array of classic and vintage cars that will go under the hammer later in the day. The highlight of the auction preview is a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, expected to fetch a record-breaking price.
Mid-Morning: Test Drives and Exhibitions
While the auction preview attracts many, others head to the test drive events hosted by various manufacturers. This year, there is a strong emphasis on electric vehicles (EVs), with many brands offering test drives of their latest EV models. Attendees have the opportunity to experience the future of driving firsthand.
Afternoon: RM Sotheby’s Auction
The afternoon is dedicated to the RM Sotheby’s auction. The room is filled with excitement as bidding wars break out over some of the most sought-after cars in the world. The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO steals the show, selling for a staggering $70 million, setting a new record for the highest price ever paid for a car at auction.
Evening: Supercar Gathering at Cannery Row
As the sun sets, the action moves to Cannery Row, where a supercar gathering takes place. The streets are lined with some of the most exotic and powerful cars in the world. The roar of engines fills the air as car enthusiasts marvel at the lineup of Bugattis, McLarens, and Koenigseggs. It’s a car lover’s paradise.
Day 3: Legends of the Autobahn
Morning: German Car Showcases
The third day of Monterey Car Week is all about German engineering excellence. Legends of the Autobahn is a car show that celebrates the best of German automotive design. This year, the spotlight is on BMW, with a special tribute to the 50th anniversary of the BMW M division. The show features a stunning display of classic and modern BMW M cars.
Mid-Morning: Porsche Werks Reunion
Porsche fans are in for a treat as the Porsche Werks Reunion takes place. This event is a must-see for anyone who appreciates the iconic 911. The reunion brings together Porsche owners and enthusiasts, showcasing some of the rarest and most well-preserved Porsches in the world. The highlight is a pristine 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS, which draws a crowd of admirers.
Afternoon: Mercedes-Benz Star Lounge
Mercedes-Benz hosts an exclusive event at their Star Lounge, offering attendees a chance to experience the brand’s latest innovations. This year, the focus is on the new Mercedes-AMG GT, with a special reveal of a limited-edition model. Guests enjoy gourmet cuisine and fine champagne as they explore the luxurious surroundings.
Evening: Classic Car Cruise-In
The day ends with a classic car cruise-in, where owners of vintage cars take to the streets of Monterey. The sight of these beautifully restored classics cruising along the coast is a nostalgic reminder of the golden age of motoring. Spectators line the streets, cheering as the cars pass by, honking their horns in appreciation.
Day 4: The Tour d’Elegance
Morning: The Start of the Tour
The Tour d’Elegance is one of the most anticipated events of the week, where the cars entered in the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance are put to the test on a scenic drive along the coast. The tour starts early in the morning, with cars gathering at Pebble Beach before setting off on a route that takes them through the picturesque landscapes of Monterey.
Mid-Morning: Scenic Stops and Public Viewing
As the cars make their way along the route, they stop at various points for public viewing. These stops offer spectators a rare opportunity to see the cars up close and chat with the owners. The sense of camaraderie among the participants is palpable, as they share stories about their cars and the history behind them.
Afternoon: Return to Pebble Beach
After a morning of driving, the cars return to Pebble Beach, where they are greeted by an enthusiastic crowd. The cars are parked on the lawn, offering a preview of the Concours d’Elegance. The Tour d’Elegance is not just about the cars; it’s also a celebration of the passion and dedication of the people who preserve these automotive treasures.
Evening: Bonhams Auction
The evening is reserved for the Bonhams auction, another major event of the week. This auction features a mix of vintage and contemporary cars, with a focus on European marques. The highlight is a 1937 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic, one of the rarest and most valuable cars in the world. The bidding is intense, and the car eventually sells for $45 million.
Day 5: Motorsports and Performance
Morning: Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion
The fifth day is all about speed and performance at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion. This event takes place at the legendary Laguna Seca Raceway, where historic race cars take to the track. The sound of roaring engines and the smell of burning rubber fill the air as these iconic machines race around the circuit. It’s a thrilling experience for both participants and spectators.
Mid-Morning: Trackside Experience
Attendees have the opportunity to get up close to the action with a trackside experience. This VIP package includes access to the pit lane, where guests can meet the drivers and see the cars being prepared for the races. It’s a unique chance to experience the adrenaline of motorsport up close.
Afternoon: Historic Races
The highlight of the day is the historic races, featuring cars from different eras competing against each other. The sight of classic Ferraris, Jaguars, and Porsches battling it out on the track is a nostalgic trip back in time. The races are fiercely contested, with drivers pushing their cars to the limit in pursuit of victory.
Evening: Automotive Art Show
The evening shifts gears to a more relaxed atmosphere with an automotive art show. This event celebrates the artistic side of car culture, featuring works by renowned automotive artists. The gallery is filled with paintings, sculptures, and photographs that capture the beauty and essence of the automobile. It’s a reminder that cars are not just machines; they are also works of art.
Day 6: The Concours d’Elegance
Morning: Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance
The sixth day of Monterey Car Week is the pinnacle of the event, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. This prestigious car show is the ultimate celebration of automotive excellence, where the finest cars in the world are judged for their design, originality, and condition. The cars are displayed on the 18th fairway of the Pebble Beach Golf Links, creating a stunning backdrop for the event.
Mid-Morning: Judging Process
The judging process is meticulous, with teams of experts examining each car in detail. The cars are judged not just on their appearance, but also on their historical significance and authenticity. The owners stand by their cars, anxiously awaiting the results as the judges make their rounds.
Afternoon: Awards Ceremony
The highlight of the Concours d’Elegance is the awards ceremony, where the best cars are recognized for their excellence. The most coveted award is the Best of Show, which is awarded to the car that best embodies the spirit of the event. This year, the award goes to a 1938 Talbot-Lago T150C-SS Figoni et Falaschi Teardrop Coupe, a stunning example of Art Deco design.
Evening: Celebration Dinner
The day ends with a celebration dinner, where the winners of the Concours d’Elegance are honored. The dinner is a glamorous affair, attended by car collectors, industry leaders, and celebrities. It’s a fitting conclusion to a week that celebrates the very best of the automotive world.
Day 7: Closing and Reflections
Morning: Farewell Breakfast
The final day of Monterey Car Week begins with a farewell breakfast, where attendees gather to reflect on the week that has passed. It’s a bittersweet moment as the cars start to leave Pebble Beach, but there is also a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.
Mid-Morning: Departure of the Cars
As the cars depart, there is a feeling of nostalgia in the air. The sight of these beautiful machines being driven away is a reminder that Monterey Car Week is not just about the cars; it’s about the people who love them. The owners, the restorers, the enthusiasts – they are the heart and soul of this event.
Afternoon: Final Thoughts
As the week comes to an end, it’s time to reflect on the highlights of Monterey Car Week 2024. The event has once again proven to be a celebration of automotive excellence, bringing together the best cars, the best people, and the best experiences. From the auctions to the races, from the art shows to the Concours d’Elegance, Monterey Car Week is a unique and unforgettable experience.
Evening: Looking Forward to 2025
As the sun sets on the final day, thoughts turn to next year. Monterey Car Week 2025 promises to be even bigger and better, with new cars, new events, and new memories to be made. Until then, we bid farewell to Pebble Beach and Monterey, with the promise to return again.
Conclusion
The 2024 Pebble Beach and Monterey Car Week has been a spectacular event, filled with unforgettable moments and breathtaking cars. From the opening gala to the Concours d’Elegance, this week has been a celebration of the very best of the automotive world. As we look back on the week, we are reminded of the passion and dedication that drives the people who make this event possible. Here’s to another successful year at Monterey Car Week, and to the promise of many more to come.
