2023 La Jolla Concourse de Elegance Wrap up!! - A Time to Be Had!!
2023 La Jolla Concourse de Elegance - A Time to Be Had!
The La Jolla Concourse de Elegance is a renowned annual automobile event that celebrates classic, vintage, and exotic cars from around the world. This prestigious event has been held in the scenic coastal city of La Jolla, California. The unbelievable ocean and cliffside views compliment the caliber of automobiles and the concourse itself!
Why is this show important? Not just the cars!
Not only do you have the rare chance to be amongst some of the rarest and most collectible cars in the world, the La Jolla Concourse de Elegance is an occasion to benefit The La Jolla Historical Society which was established in 1964. The Society is dedicated to raising people's awareness and appreciation with the mission of collecting, preserving, and presenting local history for the enjoyment and education of present and future residents and visitors.
The La Jolla Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with at the time of this post more than 700 members! If you wish to learn more about the society and how you can assist visit their website here:
Now, on to the show!
As soon as I found my way through downtown La Jolla and into the cove I knew I was in for something special, this gorgeous beach cove is one of the most sought-after vacation spots for both tourists and locals, its magnificent cliffs, immaculate sand beaches, and calming crystal-clear waters make it a popular choice. This exact location has been paired perfectly to host some of the rarest and exotic vehicles that not only California but arguably the world has to bring the panoramic views, and natural landscape make this concourse visit a truly memorable experience and trust me I have been to similar events all over the world!
The La Jolla Concourse de Elegance is a multi-day event that features a wide range of activities and events. Here are some of the highlights:
Friday Night VIP Reception
This years event started off with a jam-packed weekend starting on Friday the 21st of April with a (sold out) experience entitled "Beyond the Garden Gates". This pre-show get-together gave guests a chance mingle and savor gourmet food and drinks accompanied by live entertainment. It's an opportunity for auto lovers and collectors to socialize with like-minded people and get a close-up and intimate view and display of rare Duesenberg's.
Saturday Porsche's on Prospect
This complimentary event showcases a beautiful gathering of vintage and modern Porsche's. The event includes a showcase of Porsche models on the street of Prospect Avenue in the center of La Jolla Village. The event encourages enthusiasts to shop and visit some of best art galleries, jewelry stores, and shops in La Jolla and arguably in the nation! I took a brief stroll myself and was very impressed with the concentration of various art and high-end watch and jewelry establishments.
Concours d'Elegance
The Concours d'Elegance is the highlight of the car show, featuring some of the most exquisite and rare automobiles in the world. I arrived to the show on a beautiful Sunday morning and couldn't have asked for more excellent weather! The cars are judged based on their condition, historical significance, and overall beauty. The winner of the Concours d'Elegance is awarded the coveted Best in Show award.
Awards Ceremony
The Concours d'Elegance awards ceremony recognizes the winners of various categories, you will hear of winners in categories that accompany other concourse events but also very niche and specific awards such as such as the Co-Chairman's Award, Best American Car, Phillip Wichard Excellence in Design Award, La Jolla Historical Society Award and the like. Check out the 2023 winners on the website! So many categories and well deserved awards I cannot do it justice here!
The La Jolla Concourse de Elegance features a wide range of classic, vintage, and exotic cars, from pre-war classics to modern-day supercars. Here are some of my favorite images from this year's event:
The La Jolla Concourse de Elegance in my opinion is not only a wonderfully organized event it also allows visitors to be captivated by some of the most breathtaking views in Southern California. The show itself offers various "experiences" ranging from the complimentary Porsche's on Prospect event to VIP packages that allow attendees to experience the ultimate in luxury such as this year's Luxury Ocean Suite Lounge which was limited to 75 attendees.
A special thanks to McFarlane Promotions for allowing me access and the privilege to cover this event. Believe it or not next year's event will be here sooner than you know! Stay up to date with all things via their website.
I hope to see you at the next one!
Signing off,
Alen