18th Annual La Jolla Concours d’Elegance

Celebrating the Timeless Elegance of the Roaring 20s and the Glamorous 30s

From April 19 – 21, this year’s event will showcase an unmatched display of 170+ meticulously restored automobiles from the 1920s, 1930s, and beyond with commemorative art by Scott Jacobs

LA JOLLA, CA (JANUARY 25, 2024) – Returning to the sparkling coastline of La Jolla, the La Jolla Concours d’Elegance, proudly presented by LPL Financial, celebrates its 18th year of automotive excellence Friday, April 19 – Sunday, April 21. Earning a reputation as one of the finest internationally renowned classic automobile showcases in the United States, the La Jolla Concours continues to attract discerning car enthusiasts from around the globe for a weekend of prestigious events.

Instead of featuring a single Marque, the 2024 Concours celebrates a vast range of makes and models from the transformative era of the 1920s and 1930s, including Bugatti, Duesenberg, Packard, Bentley, Rolls Royce, and more. From sleek Art Deco designs to the powerful engines found within, these vehicles will transport spectators back to a time of innovation, luxury, and boundless enthusiasm for automotive craftsmanship.

Official La Jolla Concours artist Scott Jacobs, well known for his incredible photorealistic paintings of motorcycles and automobiles, will continue to astound in 2024 as he paints the 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III from Aaron Wiess’ collection for this year’s cover art to be featured on posters, programs, tickets, banners and more.

The 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III epitomizes the luxury and engineering prowess of pre-war Rolls-Royce. This model, replacing the Phantom II, is distinguished as the only V12 Rolls-Royce until 1998's Silver Seraph. Among the 721 V12 Phantom III chassis built from 1936 to 1939, this particular vehicle is a testament to the era's peak in automotive luxury and design. Its heart, an aluminum-alloy V12 7.32-liter engine, is a marvel of its time, featuring a dual ignition system with two distributors and 24 spark plugs. 

“This year, the Concours is a tribute to the Marques that symbolized the pinnacle of automotive elegance and engineering in the 1920s and 1930s,” said Chairman Michael Dorvillier. “The cars from this era showcase the craftsmanship and groundbreaking designs that defined the roaring 20s and glamorous 30s.”

The 1920s and 1930s were marked by significant advancements in automotive technology and accessibility. The surge in the automobile industry was fueled by rising wages, a growing need for mobility, and the advent of installment payment plans. As cars became more affordable, the demand for improved road infrastructure rose. This era saw roads transition from rough paths suited for horse-drawn carriages to more durable surfaces like concrete, greatly impacting vehicle design and functionality.

Vehicles from the 1920s were characterized by high ground clearance and slender tires, tailored for the challenging road conditions of the time. However, as road quality enhanced towards the end of the decade, cars evolved with lower profiles and broader tires, reflecting the changing landscape. The proliferation of automobiles also revolutionized travel, leading to the popularity of leisure drives and the emergence of motels and roadside services.

This period saw a burst of new car brands, ranging from affordable models like the Ford Model T to luxurious vehicles from Duesenberg and Rolls Royce. While many of these brands, such as Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and Ford, have withstood the test of time, others are now cherished pieces in museums and events like the La Jolla Concours d'Elegance.

A Full Lineup of Weekend Events

FRIDAY, APRIL 19, 2024

Experience the Delights of La Jolla: Kick off the weekend by exploring the enchanting offerings of La Jolla, including its diverse range of restaurants, art galleries, and unique attractions, each extending exclusive La Jolla Concours d’Elegance specials.

La Jolla Concours d’Elegance VIP Party | 6PM-10PM | Ellen Browning Scripps Park

Embark on an unforgettable journey at the renowned La Jolla Concours d’Elegance VIP Party, set against the majestic Pacific Ocean and greens of Ellen Browning Scripps Park on Friday, April 19, 2024, from 6pm to 10pm. Known for its ingenuity and trendsetting event themes, this year’s celebration promises to be a night to remember. Immerse yourself in live music, savor artistically crafted cocktails from a hosted bar, relish gourmet delights from 20 of San Diego's top restaurants, and participate in an exciting live auction featuring unique items. There are limited tickets to this exclusive soiree, that boasts a history of selling out, guests are encouraged to secure tickets early. 

SATURDAY, APRIL 20, 2024

The La Jolla Concours Tour d’Elegance | 7AM-2PM

Take part in an intimate, exclusive experience during the La Jolla Concours Tour d'Elegance from 7AM to 2PM. Start your day by visiting remarkable car collections followed by a driving tour of the breathtaking scenery of San Diego. Spend the day with fellow car aficionados and conclude your day with a sumptuous lunch at the private venue. Cars may enter to participate for a fee of $425.

Porsches on Prospect | 5PM-9PM

On Saturday evening, ignite your passion for Porsches during "Porsches on Prospect" in the heart of La Jolla Village. Witness 75 magnificent Porsches lining Prospect Street, and immerse yourself in the village's vibrant atmosphere, featuring live music, exclusive retail offers, gallery openings, restaurant specials, and much more. This event is free for viewers of all ages. If you want to showcase your Porsche, limited spaces remain for a registration fee of $125 which grants true VIP status and access to Porsches party at the Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty.

SUNDAY, APRIL 21, 2024

The La Jolla Concours d’Elegance | 9AM-4PM | La Jolla’s Ellen Browning Scripps Park

This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to view over 200 spectacular and rare vehicles that will be displayed on the La Jolla Cove lawn along the breathtaking Pacific Coast. Indulge in the Champagne and Honey Tasting Garden and other unique experiences throughout the day. Enjoy live music, visit exclusive vendors, and indulge in refreshing beers and cocktails – all while surrounded by a once-in-a-lifetime display of cars. Don’t forget to look to the skies for a vintage flyover along the coast!

TICKETS

Tickets for the 2024 LJCDE are available now.  Details can be found at www.lajollaconcours.com.  It is encouraged to buy tickets early to ensure your entry to this year’s show.

GO VIP: Enhance the LJCDE experience with an upgraded premium or VIP ticket. Attend the La Jolla Concours in true VIP style, skip the line and breeze through with a dedicated check in, enjoy fabulous bites from fifteen of San Diego’s finest restaurants, and enjoy hosted access to the newly expanded VIP bar, a commemorative poster from the renowned La Jolla Concours artist, Scott Jacobs, and a La Jolla Concours Program. Various VIP tiers are available for the Sunday La Jolla Concours d’Elegance as well as other weekend events while supplies last.

About La Jolla Concours d’Elegance

Recognized globally as one of the finest classic automobile showcases in the United States, the La Jolla Concours consistently draws discerning car enthusiasts from around the world. This year's La Jolla Concours theme, celebrating the Roaring 20s and the Glamorous 30s, promises to infuse the event with a sense of yester-year nostalgia and timeless elegance. The 18th Annual La Jolla Concours proceeds will go towards the La Jolla Historical Society, which preserves the rich history of the village of La Jolla. In addition to the La Jolla Historical Society, the La Jolla Concours benefits several additional local community non-profit partners each year. For more information, to obtain a registration form or to purchase tickets to the featured weekend events, please visit www.lajollaconcours.com or call 619.233.5008