If you’re planning your automotive calendar, you likely want to know when is Monterey Car Week 2025. Monterey Car Week 2025 is scheduled to take place in mid-August on the California coast. This world-renowned celebration of automotive history and innovation transforms the Monterey Peninsula into a global hub for car enthusiasts every year.
This guide provides the essential dates, event schedule, and planning tips you need for the 2025 festivities. We’ll cover everything from the main auction dates to the iconic concours events.
Marking your calendar is just the first step. Securing tickets and accommodations requires early action due to the event’s massive popularity.
When Is Monterey Car Week 2025
The core dates for Monterey Car Week 2025 are expected to be from Saturday, August 9th, through Sunday, August 17th. The week traditionally culminates with the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on the final Sunday.
It’s important to note that while the Concours is the finale, many related events, auctions, and gatherings begin in the preceding days. Some preview events and hospitality functions may start as early as Thursday, August 7th.
You should plan your travel around the full week to experience the wide array of activities. The schedule is packed, and key events are spread across different venues.
Official 2025 Event Dates And Schedule
The official, detailed schedule is typically released in the spring of 2025. However, based on historical patterns, you can anticipate the following key anchor events.
The sequence of major events usually follows a predictable flow leading up to the grand finale.
Key Anchor Events And Their Probable 2025 Dates
- The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance: Sunday, August 17th. This is the pinnacle event held on the 18th fairway of Pebble Beach Golf Links.
- The Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion: Thursday, August 14th, through Sunday, August 17th. This historic racing event takes place at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.
- The Pebble Beach Tour d’Elegance: Thursday, August 14th. A driving tour for Concours entrants that is a public spectacle.
- Concours d’Lemons: Saturday, August 16th. A hilarious and beloved event celebrating the “oddball” cars.
- Carmel-by-the-Sea Concours on the Avenue: Tuesday, August 12th. A free, public display along Ocean Avenue.
Historical Date Patterns For Planning
Monterey Car Week has been held in mid-August for decades. It consistently encompasses the third weekend of August, with the Concours always on the Sunday of that weekend.
This pattern makes long-term planning relatively reliable. If you see a calendar where August 17th is a Sunday, you can be fairly confident that is Concours Sunday.
Small adjustments can occure year-to-year based on venue availability and other factors, but the mid-August window is fixed. Always verify dates with official sources once announced.
Complete Guide To Monterey Car Week Events
Monterey Car Week is not a single event but a constellation of gatherings, each with its own character. Understanding the different types of events helps you choose where to focus your time and budget.
From elegant lawn shows to roaring race tracks and high-stakes auctions, there is an experience for every automotive passion. Tickets for some events sell out within minutes of going on sale.
Major Concours And Car Shows
These are the static displays where automotive art is presented and judged. They range from the ultra-exclusive to the wonderfully accessible.
- Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance: The most prestigious car show in the world. Features rare classics, concept cars, and judged classes. Tickets are extremely limited and expensive.
- Concorso Italiano: A celebration of Italian automotive design and style, typically held on the Friday. It showcases Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Alfa Romeos, and more.
- The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering: An exclusive, invitation-style event known for its luxurious atmosphere and high-quality curation of both vintage and modern performance cars.
- Carmel-by-the-Sea Concours on the Avenue: A fantastic free event where hundreds of cars line Ocean Avenue for public viewing. It’s a must-do for any attendee.
Historic Racing And Dynamic Events
For those who prefer the sound of engines at full cry, these events offer thrilling on-track action.
The Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at Laguna Seca is the highlight. It features hundreds of historic race cars competing on the legendary circuit, including the famous Corkscrew turn.
You can purchase general admission or paddock passes to get up close to the cars and teams. The racing is authentic and the access is unparalleled in modern motorsport.
Automotive Auctions And Sales
The auctions are a spectacle unto themselves, with billions of dollars in classic and collector cars changing hands.
Major auction houses like RM Sotheby’s, Gooding & Company, and Bonhams hold their flagship sales during this week. You can register to bid or simply observe the excitement as records are often set.
Preview days are usually open to the public, allowing you to see the auction cars up close before the gavel falls. It’s like a museum pop-up with price tags.
Planning Your 2025 Monterey Car Week Trip
Successfully attending Car Week requires more strategy than a typical vacation. Demand for everything from hotel rooms to rental cars far exceeds supply.
Starting your planning early is the single most important advice. Many enthusiasts book their accommodations for the next year before leaving the current event.
Securing Accommodations And Lodging
Lodging on the Monterey Peninsula books up over a year in advance for Car Week. Prices also rise significantly.
- Book Immediately: If you’re serious about 2025, begin searching for cancellations or newly listed properties now.
- Consider Surrounding Areas: Look at hotels in Seaside, Marina, Salinas, or even Santa Cruz. You’ll face a commute but will have more options.
- Explore Rental Platforms: Vacation rentals (like Vrbo or Airbnb) can be a good option, but be aware of minimum stay requirements and steep prices.
- Join Club Waitlists: Some automotive clubs offer lodging blocks for members. Inquire with any clubs you belong to.
Transportation And Getting Around
Traffic during Car Week is famously congested. Having a smart transportation plan is crucial.
- Rental Cars: Book your rental car as early as you book your flight. Availability disappears and prices skyrocket.
- Driving Yourself: Expect heavy traffic, especially on Highway 1 and roads leading to Pebble Beach, Laguna Seca, and Carmel. Patience is required.
- Alternative Options: Utilize ride-sharing apps, local taxi services, or the complimentary shuttles offered by some events like the Concours.
- Parking: Paid parking is available at most major venues, but lots fill up early. Carpooling is highly recommended.
Purchasing Tickets For Key Events
Not all events require tickets, but the premier ones certainly do. Here is a breakdown.
Most tickets go on sale in the spring or early summer of 2025. Sign up for email newsletters from each event’s official website to get precise sale dates.
- Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance: Tickets are lottery-based or through authorized partners. Apply as soon as the lottery opens.
- The Quail: Tickets sell out within minutes online. Be ready at your computer the moment sales start.
- Rolex Reunion: General admission tickets are usually plentiful but can be purchased in advance online for a discount.
- Concorso Italiano & Others: Purchase these tickets online in advance to avoid lines and secure your spot.
What To Expect During The Week
The atmosphere during Monterey Car Week is electric and unique. The entire peninsula embraces its role as the temporary automotive capital of the world.
You’ll see incredible cars everywhere—not just at the events. They’re parked at hotels, driving down the coast, and filling gas stations. It’s a continuous, rolling car show.
Weather And Climate Conditions
Monterey in August typically enjoys mild, coastal weather. However, it’s famous for its microclimates and fog.
Mornings and evenings can be quite cool and foggy, especially near the coast. Afternoons often warm up with sunshine.
Packing layers is essential. Bring a light jacket, sweater, and comfortable shoes. Sunscreen is also a must for the daytime hours.
Local Amenities And Dining Tips
Restaurants are exceptionally busy throughout the week. Making reservations weeks or even months in advance is standard practice for popular spots.
Consider dining in neighboring towns like Pacific Grove or Seaside for more availability. Grocery stores and casual cafes will also be crowded, so plan accordingly.
It’s a good idea to keep snacks and water in your car, as you may be spending long hours at events or in traffic.
FAQ About Monterey Car Week 2025
Here are answers to some common questions about attending Monterey Car Week in 2025.
What Are The Exact Dates For Monterey Car Week 2025?
The main events are projected to run from August 9th to August 17th, 2025, with the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on Sunday the 17th. Some pre-week activities may begin on the 7th.
How Can I Get Tickets For The Pebble Beach Concours?
Public tickets are primarily allocated through a lottery system. You must enter the lottery when it opens, usually in the first quarter of 2025. Another route is through official hospitality packages or certain automotive club memberships.
Is Monterey Car Week Open To The Public?
Yes and no. Many events like the Carmel Concours on the Avenue, the Exotics on Cannery Row, and viewing the Pebble Beach Tour d’Elegance are free and open to all. However, the premier concours and ticketed events require purchased admission.
What Is The Best Way To See Cars Without Event Tickets?
You can see an amazing collection of cars simply by walking around Carmel, Pacific Grove, and the Pebble Beach area. Hotels like The Lodge at Pebble Beach and The Inn at Spanish Bay often have displays. The auctions also have free public preview days.
When Should I Book My Hotel For 2025?
You should book your hotel as soon as possible. Many properties are already taking reservations or have waitlists. If you haven’t booked yet, begin your search immediately and be flexible with your location.
Final Preparations For Your Visit
As the event approaches, a few final steps will ensure a smooth experience. Confirm all your bookings, including flights, hotels, and rental cars, about a month before you travel.
Print or save digital copies of your event tickets and reservation confirmations in a dedicated folder on your phone. Cell service can be spotty in some areas.
Finally, study a map of the peninsula to understand the distances between venues like Laguna Seca, Carmel, and Pebble Beach. This will help you create a realistic daily itinerary.
Monterey Car Week is an unforgettable experience for any car lover. With the 2025 dates in mind and early planning, you can secure your spot at the world’s greatest celebration of the automobile. Start your preparations today to make the most of this incredible week.