Greenwich revs up for annual car show
At Concours d'Elegance, see cars driven by Elvis Presley and John Lennon, and 'super-cars'
GREENWICH — The 27th annual Greenwich Concours d’Elegance, a car show that brings together automotive enthusiasts and motoring excellence at the Greenwich waterfront, is set to run this weekend.
The Concours will draw some 10,000 visitors from around the region, and dozens of antiques, racers, sedans, roadsters and “supercars” will be part of the line-up.
Here’s what you need to know about the Concours d’Elegance:
What is the Councours?
The phrase means “competition of elegance” in French, and the Concours was founded in 1996. The event’s goal is to promote a love of automobiles and boosts the business, and it is regarded as one of the finest in the country.
The management of the eagerly anticipated event changed hands four years ago. The Wennerstrom family that had organized the Concours for over two decades sold the rights to Hagerty, a Michiganbased company that promotes appreciation of classic cars and provides specialty insurance.
Over 150 cars will be on view on Saturday, June 2 and Sunday, June 3 at Roger Sherman Baldwin Park near Exit 3 off Interstate 95.
A “Grand Tour” limited to Concours entrants will motor across the roads of Greenwich and the New York area on Friday, by invitation only.
What's the expected attendance?
Five thousand car fans are expected each day of the event.
What are the celebrity connections to the cars?
There will be a unique class called “Driven by Celebrity,” says Matt Ordenac, vice-chairman of Concours Group.
“Many of the cars were driven by famous people like Elvis Presley, (football legend) Walter Payton, and John Lennon,” Ordenac says.
What are the food and drink options at the show?
“We have multiple, local business food trucks providing a variety of great cuisine,” Ordenac said. “Our hospitality suite, ‘Club Greenwich,’ offers gourmet food and drink all day.”
What can kids do at the show?
The event is geared for family fun, say organizers.
“Our ‘Future Drivers Club’ is a safe dedicated space for ‘Future Drivers,’ aka, younger generation enthusiasts. We provide multiple activities including designing your first keychain, first car and other activities. We also have youth judging on Saturday and Sunday,” said Ordenac.
What kind of attire should people wear?
The Concours is noted for fun attire and great people-watching, organizers say. Participants often wear old-time bonnets, dusters and goggles, and racing jackets are another familiar sight at the show.
“We always encourage attendees to dress up and enjoy the fun, family atmosphere,” Ordenac said.
What's the oldest car in the show?
“We have several steam cars from the early 1900’s, and an 1896 Roberts Electric Automobile that will be on display,” said Ordenac. Modern “super-cars” will also be on the bill.
Who is the master of ceremonies this year?
Television host Wayne Carini will be appearing at the Concours and serve as grand marshal. The star of “Chasing Classic Cars” has run an automotive business in Portland, Conn., for many years.
What's the cost of admission?
General admission on Saturday for adults over the age of 23 is $55. Younger attendees between the ages of 13 and 22 will pay $25. Everyone 12 and under are free.
On Sunday, adults over the age of 23 will pay $65. The younger group, from 13 and 22, will be charged $35. Again, 12 and under are free.