2024 Concours At Wynn Las Vegas Connects With Automotive Enthusiasts

05 Nov 2024 by Michael Harley · Forbes

The Silver State of Nevada hosted the 2024 Concours at Wynn Las Vegas this past weekend, and the third annual event solidified itself as one of the premier showcases for exceptional award-winning pre- and post-war automobiles from the world’s finest collectors. The three-day celebration, set against the backdrop of the famed Vegas Strip, drew enthusiasts from around the globe to commemorate automotive excellence during an immersive event-filled weekend hosted by emcee Justin Bell, the famed world-champion British racing driver and television personality.

“This year’s Concours at Wynn Las Vegas was absolutely exceptional and attracted more attendees than ever before,” said Brian Gullbrants, COO North America, Wynn Resorts. “This year’s success wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible, generous support of our dedicated partners, sponsors, exhibitors, esteemed judges, and friends. We are excited to continue building our Concours event in the years to come, further solidifying Wynn Las Vegas as a premier destination for automotive enthusiasts.”

Basem Wasef, an author and automotive expert who has attended innumerable leading Concours d’Elegance events around the globe, noted that the Las Vegas Concours is “light years away from Monterey Car Week’s cacophonous sprawl, Villa d’Este’s effete focus, or Amelia Island/Hilton Head’s well-hewn local groove. This is about a low-key vibe anchored by some heavy hitters like French Curves, McQueen sleds, and rarities from the Audrain, Nethercutt and Petersen collections, restomod gems from Kelham & Thornley, supreme Lanzante Maccas, the odd MacNeil 250 GTO, and quite a few outliers in between.”

“Las Vegas gained credibility among the automotive set when grand prix racing returned to the city in 2023 after a 41-year absence,” remarks Wasef. “The Concours at Wynn capitalizes on that association, deepening the city’s connection to automotive enthusiasts.” The timing of this year’s three-day event, just weeks before the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, served as a relaxing prequel to the hectic race.

On Saturday, guests strolled the sprawling manicured lawns of the Wynn Golf Club, enjoying fine food and beverage selections as they viewed a juried display of more than 250 vehicles from different eras. On Sunday, enthusiasts enjoyed the Tour d’Elegance, a parade of show cars and exotic vehicles along iconic Las Vegas Boulevard. “Unlike events like Monterey Car Week, which present inherent geographic and logistical challenges, Las Vegas’ infrastructure makes this concours far less challenging for exhibitors and attendees,” observed Wasef.

Awards were announced within five judged and non-judged pillars for vehicle entry and display: Concours d’Elegance, Speed, Innovation, Culture, and Ultra-Luxury and Coach Built. The Best of Show Pre-War winner was a 1931 Duesenberg Model J Taper Tail Speedster, while the Post-War recipient was a 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO. Other notable winners: 1973 Porsche 930 Turbo Prototype, 1967 Ford Shelby Mustang, and a 1989 Lamborghini Countach.

“Unlike legacy car events with longstanding traditions, the Concours at Wynn Las Vegas benefits from its clean sheet origins a mere three years ago. The event started small but has steadily built its audience and is starting to form a unique identity amidst the constellation of similarly themed classic car events,” said Wasef. “It may take years to fully develop its place in the space, but so far, the event is off to a promising start.” Wynn Las Vegas has announced dates for Concours weekend next year, which will occur from Friday, Oct. 31 to Nov. 2, 2025.