Car Shows California is a car lover’s paradise, hosting some of the most exciting automotive events in the world. From the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance showcasing rare vintage cars to the high-energy Los Angeles Auto Show unveiling the latest models, there’s something for every enthusiast.
Monterey Car Week offers a full week of automotive excellence, while the Goodguys Del Mar Nationals celebrates classic American muscle. For those passionate about custom builds, the industry-only SEMA Show is a must-know event. Meanwhile, Cars & Coffee gatherings across the state provide a casual way to admire exotic and classic cars for free.
6 Car Shows in California That Will Get You Revved Up :-
| Car Show | Location | When | Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance | Pebble Beach, CA | August | $475+ |
| Monterey Car Week | Monterey, CA | August | Free to $500+ |
| Los Angeles Auto Show | Los Angeles, CA | November | $20-$50 |
| SEMA Show | Las Vegas, NV | November | Industry-Only (Invitation Required) |
| Goodguys Del Mar Nationals | Del Mar, CA | April | $25+ |
| Cars & Coffee (Various Locations) | Multiple Cities in CA | Weekly/Monthly | Free |
1. Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance
📍 Location: Pebble Beach, CA
📅 When: August
💰 Ticket Price: $475+
Why You Should Go:
This is the most prestigious classic car event in the world, featuring the rarest and most valuable vintage automobiles. Held on the scenic Pebble Beach Golf Course, this show is an elegant blend of luxury, history, and automotive excellence.
Highlights:
✔ Ultra-rare classic cars from the early 1900s
✔ Exclusive auctions selling multi-million-dollar vehicles
✔ Celebrities and car collectors from around the world
2. Monterey Car Week
📍 Location: Monterey, CA
📅 When: August
💰 Ticket Price: Free to $500+ (depends on events)
Why You Should Go:
Monterey Car Week is an entire week dedicated to all things automotive. From historic races to high-end auctions, this event is a car lover’s dream come true.
Highlights:
✔ The famous Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at Laguna Seca Raceway
✔ Exclusive supercar unveilings and test drives
✔ Classic car rallies along the Pacific Coast Highway
3. Los Angeles Auto Show
📍 Location: Los Angeles, CA
📅 When: November
💰 Ticket Price: $20-$50
Why You Should Go:
One of the largest auto shows in the U.S., the LA Auto Show is the place to see the latest car models, futuristic concepts, and new electric vehicles before they hit the market.
Highlights:
✔ Brand-new car debuts from major automakers
✔ Test drives of the newest electric and hybrid cars
✔ Interactive exhibits, including VR driving simulators
4. SEMA Show (Specialty Equipment Market Association)
📍 Location: Las Vegas, NV (just outside CA)
📅 When: November
💰 Ticket Price: Industry-Only Event (Invitation Required)
Why You Should Go:
SEMA is the ultimate event for modified and custom cars. While technically in Nevada, it attracts thousands of California car enthusiasts. From wild custom builds to cutting-edge performance parts, this show is a gearhead’s paradise.
Highlights:
✔ One-of-a-kind custom cars and hot rods
✔ The latest aftermarket parts and technology
✔ Live drifting exhibitions with pro drivers
5. Goodguys Del Mar Nationals
📍 Location: Del Mar, CA
📅 When: April
💰 Ticket Price: $25+
Why You Should Go:
If you love classic American muscle cars, hot rods, and custom builds, the Goodguys Del Mar Nationals is a must-visit. Featuring hundreds of vintage cars, this event celebrates American automotive history.
Highlights:
✔ Classic hot rods, muscle cars, and custom trucks
✔ Swap meets and auto part vendors
✔ Autocross racing events
6. Cars & Coffee – Various Locations
📍 Location: Multiple cities in California (Irvine, San Diego, LA, San Francisco)
📅 When: Weekly or Monthly
💰 Ticket Price: Free
Why You Should Go:
Cars & Coffee events are informal gatherings where car lovers bring their prized vehicles to share with the community. You never know what you’ll see—Ferraris, Lamborghinis, vintage Porsches, or even hypercars.
Highlights:
✔ A relaxed and friendly car show atmosphere
✔ Variety of vehicles, from JDM to exotics to classics
✔ Free to attend!
Official Link :- LINK
Conclusion
California is home to some of the most exciting car shows in the world, offering something for every type of enthusiast. Whether you prefer rare vintage cars at Pebble Beach, cutting-edge tech at the LA Auto Show, or custom builds at SEMA, there’s an event for you. Make sure to plan your trip, buy your tickets early, and get ready to experience the ultimate automotive culture!
FAQs :-
What is the most prestigious car show in California?
The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is considered the most prestigious car event in California and worldwide.
Which car show has the newest car releases?
The Los Angeles Auto Show is where automakers unveil their latest models and concept cars.
Can anyone attend the SEMA Show?
No, SEMA is an industry-only event, but some sections are open to the public.
What is the best car show for classic car lovers?
The Goodguys Del Mar Nationals and Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance are great for classic car enthusiasts.
Are there free car shows in California?
Yes! Cars & Coffee events are free and held in various cities across the state.
6 most expensive car in the world?
Rolls-Royce Boat Tail, The Bugatti La Voiture Noire, The Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail, The Pagani Zonda HP Barchetta, The Bugatti Centodieci, and the Mercedes-Maybach Exelero.