Everything You Need to Know About Concours and Crescendo 2024

Add a little extra horsepower to your Lowcountry retreat at the Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival. Since 2002, this world-class event has grown into a multi-day celebration of automotive and aeronautical excellence, attracting collectors and enthusiasts alike. More than 500 meticulously restored cars, boats, motorcycles, and aircraft from across the nation and the globe will be on display, each competing for the highly coveted Best of Show title in the festival’s thrilling finale.

Start your engines with the MASI Wine Dinner at Nunzio on October 30th, an exclusive evening of fine Italian cuisine paired with world-class wines from MASI. Hosted at the renowned Nunzio Restaurant + Bar, this intimate event offers an opportunity to indulge in culinary excellence as you toast the start of an action-packed weekend.
 

From there, the silver screen meets the open road with the Grand Motoring Film Festival on October 31st. Hosted at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, this unique film festival celebrates the art of motoring with screenings of automotive films, documentaries, and shorts. Enjoy a VIP reception, sip cocktails among classic cars, and be swept away by the stories of automotive excellence brought to life on the big screen.

The Lowcountry’s signature coastal-casual style gets an added touch of sparkle on November 1st at the Flights & Fancy Aeroport Gala, one of the most glamorous events of the festival. The Hilton Head Island Airport’s hangars and runways transform into a glittering showcase of vintage aircraft and luxury automobiles as you dine on gourmet food, sip fine spirits, and enjoy live music from the acclaimed violin duo Synergy Twins. You’ll also have the chance to experience high-velocity tarmac rides courtesy of BMW and Porsche. Tickets for this sought-after evening of high-octane glamor are known to sell out, so get yours while you can!

On November 2nd, embark on a first-class journey through the past, present, and future of aeronautical and automotive excellence with the Car Club Showcase and Aero Expo, featuring cutting-edge concept cars, lovingly restored vintage vehicles, and jaw-dropping aircraft. Hosted at Port Royal Golf Club and Hilton Head Island Airport, these two concurrent events offer attendees the best of both worlds, whether you’re a car enthusiast or an aviation lover. 

The festival's crown jewel, the Concours d’Elegance, takes place on November 3rd, at Port Royal Golf Club. Get up close and personal with nearly 200 rare classic, concept, and one-of-a-kind vehicles, including pristine turn-of-the-century automobiles, luxury sports cars, Italian-made motorcycles, and more. Over 75 expert judges from across North America will evaluate the entries, ultimately awarding the highly sought-after Best of Show trophy. The Concours d’Elegance offers a spectacular finale to an extraordinary weekend.

Together, the Crescendo Celebration of Arts & Culture and the Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival offer vibrant experiences that highlight the best of Hilton Head Island. Whether you’re drawn to the creative energy of art exhibits and musical performances or the allure and sophistication of film festivals and automotive icons, these festivals provide the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in everything the island has to offer.

Ready to experience Hilton Head Island? With so many can’t-miss events on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to visit the Lowcountry. Whether you’re here for the Crescendo Celebration, the Concours d’Elegance, or both, you’re in for an unforgettable fall adventure. Start planning your visit to America’s Favorite Island® today!