The United Kingdom’s long history of automotive innovation and passion makes it a mecca for car enthusiasts worldwide. From vintage classics to sleek supercars, British auto enthusiasts find something appealing in each model that makes up its diverse fleet. Every year marks a celebration for car fans where enthusiasts, manufacturers and the general public come together to marvel at engineering achievements and enjoy motoring.
Whether you are an avid collector, racer, or someone who simply enjoys participating in car competitions, the 2023/2024 calendar promises an eventful and exhilarating ride. Let’s journey through the upcoming year’s most anticipated car events, where passion meets innovation.
Practical Classics: Classic Car Show
When: 24–26 March 2024
Where: NEC Birmingham
Ticket Prices: Adult tickets start from £25 & children’s tickets begin from £20
The Practical Classics Show is an oasis for car lovers. This fantastic show boasts over 1000 vehicles on display — from 150 car clubs spanning various marques and models — and 250 exhibitors displaying restoration services, service providers, product suppliers, and competitions. This event provides attendees with nostalgia and practical workshops, making it a must-see!
Supercar Fest: The Runway
When: 20–21 May 2024
Where: Sywell Aerodrome in Northampton
Tickets Prices: Adults From £35; Kids £5
Supercar Fest: The Runway is an event dedicated to celebrating supercars. Now in its fifth year, this dynamic supercar event has quickly become one of the leading dynamic events in the UK and features top speeds along a 1km straight. The Bugatti Chiron Supersport 300+ was particularly notable, recording an incredible 191mph.
Father’s Day Motorfest Weekender
When: 17–18 June 2024
Where: Chelmsford, Essex
Tickets Prices: Adults start from £18.99 while the kids’ tickets begin from just £7.99
Motorfest Weekender is a fantastic family weekend celebration, offering everything from Monster Truck stunt shows and motorcycle displays, to BMX stunt shows, off-road action, and live wrestling matches. There’s also an inflatable village for children to play in. Organisers also include live music performances during the event. Don’t miss this fantastic way to spend Father’s Day with an automotive flair.
Vorsprung International
When: 16 July 2024
Where: Market Harborough Showground.
Ticket Prices: £15 (kids under 16 get free entry)
Vorsprung International offers the ultimate Audi experience. Attendees can witness some of Audi’s finest cars in the “Show & Shine” arena or even participate in nostalgic car rallies consisting of Audis produced before 1980. This show provides an exciting journey into automotive history that caters specifically for Audi enthusiasts.
Gravity Show
When: 26–27 August 2024
Where: Birmingham NEC
Tickets Prices: Adults starting from £28; Kids from £13
Gravity Show is all about variety: classic cars, race cars, or anything in between — you’ll find them here. What began as an event for modified cars is now a showcase of all forms of vehicles. Now hosted in the NEC in Birmingham over several days of events, the 2024 show promises to be bigger and better than ever.
Salon Privé
When: 30 August–2 September 2024
Where: Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire
Tickets Prices: Adults starting from £50; Kids start from £22.50
Salon Privé is one of the world’s premier automotive events, drawing in some of the world’s most exotic automotive brands to introduce their latest creations and offer test drives at this year’s show. Global, European, and UK premieres occur annually, making Salon Privé an unmissable showcase of supercars and vintage vehicles.
CarFest of North and South
When: 25–20 August 2024
Where: At various locations (depending upon event type)
Tickets Prices: Varies based on location
CarFest is an unrivalled celebration of all things automotive, featuring exhibits, races, live music stages, food and beverage venues, and funfair rides. CarFest brings classic and iconic cars back into fashion by hosting roller discos, vinyl fairs and performances by some of the finest tribute bands — plus, all proceeds benefit UK Children’s charities!
British Motor Show
When: TBA
Where: Farnborough International Expo Centre
Ticket Prices: TBA
Returning in 2024, The British Motor Show brings four days of engaging car content from past, present, and future. Brands will showcase their latest cars while attendees may even catch sight of famous industry faces on The Live Stage.
There will be stunt shows and pro-drifting competitions with The Sporting Bears passenger rides and pro-drifters like Button-Sitting Bum. There are also showcases of supercars, motorsport race cars, classic cars, and monster trucks. The technology hall features cutting-edge motoring tech. In advance of the main event, there will be The Virtual Motor Show providing updates with news of releases of cars as well as expert advice and knowledge for the show’s visitors.
Motorcycle Live
When: 18–26 November 2023
Where: Birmingham National Exhibition Center
Tickets Prices: To be confirmed.
This one’s for motorcycle enthusiasts. Motorcycle Live — the UK’s largest motorbike show — draws over 100,000 attendees each year who experience incredible displays, interact with manufacturers, sit on bikes and explore accessories and merchandise. Additionally, there are many unique live events like stunt displays, wheel challenges, shows of strength competitions and the “Question of Bikes” quiz!
Conclusion
UK car events go beyond simply showcasing vehicles; they also celebrate the culture, passion, and innovation behind the automotive world. When enthusiasts prepare for these celebrations, it is evident that the UK remains at the forefront of automotive celebrations with experiences tailored for every aficionado. From classic cars to supercars and technological breakthroughs, all car lovers can find something to enjoy at these events. So, mark your calendars today for a fantastic year filled with automotive treasures.