Relive the Past and Experience the Evolution of Automotive Excellence

This article includes information from:

• Dave Robbins
• Daryl Metzger
• Abby Coppola

Create Lasting Memories and Celebrate the Rich History and Future of Automotive Design

The Des Moines Concours d'Elegance team wants to invite you to an exquisite showcase of automotive history and design. The highly anticipated Des Moines Concours d’Elegance is just around the corner, set to take place on Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024. This premier event will transform the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) into a stunning display of vintage and classic motor vehicles, highlighting the design evolution and remarkable innovations that have shaped the automotive industry over the years.

As a lifelong car enthusiast, part of the excitement surrounding this event is that the city blocks which are now home to the Pappajohn Sculpture Park were once part of Des Moines’ Auto Row. The buildings which once sold brands such as Maxwell, Hudson, Star and REO now overlook meticulously restored vehicles that tell their unique stories. From the sleek lines of early 20th-century classics to the bold designs of muscle and exotic cars, every vehicle on display is a testament to the creativity and engineering prowess of its time. This isn’t just an exhibition; it’s a chance to step back in time and better understand the evolution of automotive design and technology.

One thing that makes the Des Moines Concours d’Elegance truly special is its ability to bring together car lovers from all walks of life. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply a person hoping to see if there’s an example of the car you had in high school, there’s something here for everyone. Take, for instance, one of our featured classes this year: American Station Wagons. These family workhorses are often overlooked in favor of flashier models, but carry their own unique charm and historical significance, and we're thrilled they’re getting the spotlight they deserve.

A Journey Through Automotive History

The Des Moines Concours d’Elegance is more than just an exhibition; it's an immersive experience that invites its attendees to step back in time and witness the automotive world's evolution. With a meticulously curated collection of 12 classes of vehicles, including a motorcycle class, the event offers a visual journey through the ages. Each class represents a unique era, celebrating the craftsmanship, ingenuity and passion of the designers and engineers who crafted these automotive marvels.

Here are this year's classes of vehicles:

• Antiques – Vehicles produced from the beginning of motor vehicles through 1927.
• Early Collectibles – A broad range of cars and trucks produced between 1928 and 1942.
• Atomic Age Collectibles – Vehicles with post-war styling built between 1946 and 1957.
• Space Age Collectibles – Tailfins, chrome, and sleek body lines, produced from 1958 to 1969.
• Preservation – Unaltered survivors produced before 1974.
• Classics – Luxury, limited-production automobiles produced from 1915 to 1948.
• Exotics – Speed, rarity, and provocative designs make these cars an attraction to everyone.
• American Muscle – High-performance, rear-wheel drive, mid and full-size models up to 1973.
• Motorcycles – Mechanical icons that influenced cultures with their design and engineering.
• Station Wagons – American station wagons up to 1984.
• Porsche 911 – 60th Anniversary – A history for street and the track.
• Volkswagen – 1949-1981 Volkswagens in America.

Each of these classes offers a unique perspective on the evolution of the automobile, and we encourage you to dive into the features, stories and history behind these incredible vehicles with the owners.

Driven by a Greater Purpose

Beyond the awe-inspiring collection of vehicles, the heartwarming mission behind the 2024 Des Moines Concours d’Elegance holds a deeper purpose. Proceeds from the Des Moines Concours d’Elegance will benefit Children’s Cancer Connection, an organization dedicated to supporting Iowa families impacted by childhood cancer. Our mission at CCC is to connect these families by providing opportunities that encourage relationships and strengthen community. Through generous fundraising and donor efforts, CCC offers hospital-based programming, support outings, camps, events and other outreach to more than 800 Iowa families at no cost to them. By attending and participating in this event, you're contributing to a cause that truly matters to the children and their families.

Even though the Des Moines Concours d’Elegance is free to attend on Sunday, Sept. 8, there are other ways you can support our mission. Every donation, big or small, helps us continue providing vital programs and services to families in need.

Mail checks to Des Moines Concours, P.O. Box 13322, Des Moines, IA 50310. Or email us at info@desmoinesconcours.com. You can also make a donation online at this link.

Children’s Cancer Connection is proud to be the longtime charity partner of the Des Moines Concours.

Head to the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park on Sunday, Sept. 8 to view world-class motor vehicles while supporting a cause that changes lives. Together, we can celebrate art, innovation and community, while making a deep impact on the lives of children and families through Children's Cancer Connection.

A Weekend of Extravaganza

The Des Moines Concours d’Elegance isn't just a single-day affair; join us for a weekend-long celebration of automotive culture and community. Mark your calendars for Sept. 6 – 8, 2024 and get ready for a series of captivating events:

Friday, Sept. 6

Kick off the festivities with the 3rd Annual Des Moines Concours Charity Gala at the elegant Stine Barn in West Des Moines. The evening always promises quality entertainment from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., offering a fantastic way to start the weekend! Tickets can be purchased here: desmoinesconcours.com/gala

The Charity Gala will begin with a lively social hour, accompanied by the enchanting tunes of guitarist Willy Shay. His music sets the perfect tone as we mingle and enjoy the company of friends old and new. There will be a silent auction, an Iowa Bourbon Experience lined up by Cat’s Eye Distillery, gourmet dining prepared by Chef Aaron Holt and special guest speakers. The main speaker for the evening is none other than Brent Roske, Founder of the Flamingo Network on Roku and a former director at NBC Universal. Brent’s impressive resume includes an Emmy Award and 42 Tellys, and his work in the automotive industry is extensive. He’s directed commercials for Subaru and Chevy and hosted the series 'Art on Wheels,' filming at the Pebble Beach Concours with automotive legends like Wayne Carini, Ant Anstead, Jenson Button, Derek Bell and Donald Osborne. In addition, Roske and his crew will be filming portions of Sunday’s Des Moines Concours for an episode on his channel.

Saturday, Sept. 7

Embark on the 18th Annual Heartland Driving Tour at 7:30 a.m., a nostalgic journey through Iowa's historic highways and charming towns. Later in the day, the Sponsor & Exhibitor Cars & Cocktails Reception will provide an exclusive opportunity to engage with fellow enthusiasts.

Sunday, Sept. 8

The grand finale arrives with the Des Moines Concours d’Elegance at the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., witness more than 150 meticulously restored cars and motorcycles, explore the midway featuring food trucks and merchandise vendors and engage in family-friendly activities like the radio-controlled car racetrack, LEGO users car-themed display or the photo booth.

Whether you're a dedicated automotive enthusiast, a casual admirer of automobile design or a family looking for an exciting day out, the 2024 Des Moines Concours d’Elegance offers something for everyone. With free admission and the opportunity to make a difference for families dealing with childhood cancer, we offer an enjoyable Sunday entertainment option.

We hope to see you there!

For more information, schedule details, and to stay updated with the latest news, visit the official website at desmoinesconcours.com. You can also follow the event's journey on Facebook.

	Dave Robbins Dave Robbins serves on the Board of Trustees for the Iowa Automotive Heritage Foundation. His interest in cars has been a lifelong passion. Growing up in Rockford, Ill., he had all the cars in his neighborhood memorized, including notable models like a ’56 T-Bird, a V12 E-Type and a ’63 Avanti. Without mentors in the hobby, he initially learned through hands-on experience. His first projects were a ’68 Cougar and a ’73 TR6 fitted with a Moss supercharger. He joined the Antique Automobile Club of America after moving to Des Moines, to meet fellow enthusiasts who share his love of old cars.
	Daryl Metzger Daryl Metzger serves on the Board of Trustees for the Iowa Automotive Heritage Foundation. Born and raised in Des Moines, he attended Urbandale Schools and holds an Architecture degree from Iowa State University. Now retired, he practiced architecture in Des Moines for 44 years, with projects including Reiman Gardens and the DM downtown YMCA. An avid "Car Guy" and photographer, he has captured images at car venues across America and Europe.
	Abby Coppola Abby Coppola joined the Children's Cancer Connection team in November 2023. She is an Iowa native and graduated from Iowa State University As Events Manager, Abby is responsible for managing the logistics of all internal and third-party fundraising events, as well as assisting with behind-the-scenes processes for the development team.

The Greater Des Moines Partnership calendar of events is a one-stop resource for activities taking place throughout the region. Find networking information for Greater Des Moines (DSM) businesses, including Chamber luncheons, roundtables and ribbon cuttings. You can also find live music happening each week thanks to the “Live Music This Week in DSM” blog series.