The Monterey Car Week returns to California’s scenic Pacific coastline for its annual celebration of automotive culture. Running from Wednesday, 12 August to Sunday, 16 August 2026, the five-day festival transforms the Monterey Peninsula into a playground for collectors, restorers and anyone fascinated by motoring history. Against a backdrop of cliffs, pristine beaches and the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links, the event stitches together a series of high-profile auctions, meticulously curated tours and the world-renowned concours, offering a comprehensive snapshot of the industry’s past, present and future.
Why Monterey has become the pilgrimage site for car lovers
Since its inception, Monterey Car Week has earned a reputation as the ultimate gathering for the global elite of the automotive world. The setting itself—rolling hills, ocean breezes and historic estates—creates an atmosphere that feels both luxurious and intimate. Within this arena, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance® shines as the crown jewel, showcasing over 250 meticulously restored classics judged for authenticity, originality and The concours is more than a competition; it is a living museum where each vehicle tells a story of engineering brilliance, design innovation and cultural impact.
Rolex’s quarter-century partnership and its impact
Swiss watchmaker Rolex first joined forces with the Concours in 1997, a partnership that has grown into a cornerstone of the week’s identity. This year, Rolex commemorates the 25th anniversary of its collaboration with the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion a tribute to historic racing that draws vintage racers, drivers and enthusiasts from around the world. The reunion not only honors the gladiatorial spirit of early motorsport but also reinforces Rolex’s commitment to precision, heritage and timeless performance—values that echo the very essence of classic automobiles.
Key attractions on the 2026 schedule
Collectors can look forward to a packed itinerary that includes three marquee auction sessions, each hosted by industry titans such as Bonhams, RM Sotheby’s and Barrett-Jackson. These sales typically feature rare prototypes, one-off specials and museum-grade examples, with estimated totals surpassing $300 million collectively. In parallel, the Pebble Beach Tour d’Elegance® presented by Rolex offers a curated drive through the peninsula’s most breathtaking routes, allowing participants to view the cars up close while experiencing the region’s natural beauty. Finally, the closing gala of the Concours provides a glamorous stage for award ceremonies, charity fundraisers and networking among the world’s most influential automotive figures.
What makes this year’s Car Week unique
Beyond the traditional events, 2026 introduces a series of “heritage labs” where master restorers demonstrate the painstaking processes involved in bringing a rust-bitten relic back to showroom shine. Additionally, a newly launched digital platform will stream live auction bids and concours judging to a global audience, ensuring that even those unable to travel can partake in the excitement. These innovations reflect Monterey Car Week’s ongoing evolution, blending tradition with modern accessibility while preserving the exclusive aura that defines the gathering.
Whether you are a seasoned collector, a budding enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the artistry of automotive design, Monterey Car Week 2026 promises an unforgettable immersion into the world of classic cars. With Rolex’s silver anniversary adding a layer of historic significance, the week stands as a testament to the enduring partnership between precision time-keeping and timeless motoring excellence.
