Combine the state fair, a car show and concerts, throw in a food court and let in thousands of car junkies and you have the Barrett-Jackson car collector auction. It is massive and takes over takes over the West World venue in Scottsdale. It is such a disruption in day-to-day living in this part of The Valley, that my grandkids’ school shuts down for the week because of traffic.
Running from a Friday and through the following two weekends, this event attracts thousands of enthusiasts of all ages from around the world. With at least three indoor halls surrounding the auction stage, the event also sprawls out into the open air with at least three outdoor tents. Cars ranging from hot rods to classics in all manner of condition fill these spaces. The day I devoted to it barely scratched the surface.
And it goes beyond static displays: you can attend symposia, take a hot lap or ride a motorcycle simulator. And we haven’t even gotten to the food and the vendors. Not only were the typical Southwestern favorites there, so were Greek and Asian delights. And when you finished your food, you could lounge with a cigar. My favorite vendors were the chocolatier and the acrylic portrait artists.
And then the cars: classic Ford pickups, Ford Broncos, Shelby Cobras, Plymouth Roadrunners, classic Chryslers. You get the idea. Plus rep displays from the major manufacturers (Chevrolet, Ford, Toyota, et al) and the conversion companies. This really went on for as far as the eye could see.
After talking with one of the vendors, I learned that the fall edition of this event is moving to Las Vegas. Add in a spring event in Palm Beach and a summer gathering in Columbus, you truly have a moveable feast of savory and sweet autobilia.
This was my first time. I hope to be back.
Relentless
