The Dayton Concours d’Elegance is returning to Carillon Historical Park in Dayton, Ohio, on Sunday, September 20, 2026. This annual event promises a collection of over 150 classic and antique automobiles and motorcycles, offering a captivating experience for motoring enthusiasts. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Carillon Historical Park, the Concours features judged awards, live demonstrations, food, and music.

The excitement begins even earlier, with an official preview party held on Saturday, September 19, 2026. This exclusive gathering provides an early opportunity for car collectors and auto fanatics to get an up-close look at the vehicles before the main event kicks off on Sunday.

For additional information about this highly anticipated event, please visit the official website: Dayton Concours d’Elegance at Carillon Park.

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FEATURED CARS

The 2026 Concours celebrates significant anniversaries: Pontiac’s 100th year and the BMW 3 Series’ 50th anniversary. These two marques, while appealing to different car enthusiasts, hold immense historical importance.

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The Dayton Carillon Historical Park encompasses 65-acre that include historic buildings and exhibits concerning the history of technology and the history of Dayton and its residents since 1796.

Pontiac’s centennial provides American muscle car collectors a prime opportunity to admire landmark performance and design. In contrast, the BMW 3 Series anniversary highlights one of the most crucial driver-focused platforms ever engineered.

Among the vehicles expected to capture the most attention are Pontiac-badged classics and various BMW 3 Series examples. The event will also showcase a diverse mix of pre-war, post-war, and later collector cars that define the Dayton field.

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The event officially documents entries across at least five broad categories: Pontiacs, BMW 3 Series cars, antique automobiles, classic automobiles, and motorcycles. Registration materials specify that accepted vehicles must be at least 25 years old, preserved or restored to original factory condition, and limited to 150 entries.

For car collectors and connoisseurs, this means the value extends beyond rarity. The emphasis is on the vehicle’s condition, correctness, and documented history. A Concours field like this rewards original trim, period-correct details, and thorough documentation more than mere flash.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

The main exhibition takes place on Sunday, September 20, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM at Carillon Historical Park. Motoring enthusiasts can expect to see over 150 classic and antique automobiles and motorcycles spread across the park grounds. Live music, food vendors, and historical demonstrations will further enhance the day’s experience.

The Dayton Concours d’Elegance will take place on 65 acres of carefully manicured lawns in Carillon Historical Park. The Car Show will feature over 150 classic and collectible vintage cars and motorcycles from 10:30 pm to 4:00 pm. The show includes food, fun, and entertainment for the whole family. The show ends with a prestigious award ceremony for the best cars in each car class.

The awards presentation remains a pivotal part of the program, culminating in a parade of Best in Class winners to the stage for the final ceremony. Major accolades include the Rick Grant Best of Show, Charles Kettering People’s Choice, Col. Edward Deeds Judge’s Choice, Siler Spirit, Taj Ma Garaj, and Kid’s Choice awards.

The Preview Party, scheduled for Saturday, September 19, 2026, is designed for collectors and autophiles seeking a more intimate viewing experience before the larger crowds arrive. This event includes an early look at the cars, along with music, food, beverages, a silent auction, and an automotive art pavilion.

Significantly, the event maintains its charitable component, with Dayton History noting that all proceeds benefit the organization responsible for operating both the park and the event.

GUEST HOSTS & CELEBRITIES

No specific celebrity hosts or honorary judges have been explicitly identified in the verified 2026 event information reviewed. However, the official registration materials do confirm Dale Oakes as the Concours Co-Chairman for the vehicle selection committee.

The published award structure includes both judge-based and public-choice recognition. Nevertheless, no verified 2026 list of honorary judges or celebrity presenters is currently documented in the available event sources.

THE VENUE

Carillon Historical Park, spanning 65 acres in Dayton, provides an ideal setting for showcasing vintage vehicles. Founded in 1942 by Colonel Edward and Edith Deeds, the park narrates Dayton’s history, from its origins in 1796 through its industrial wartime era.

The park’s expansive lawns, historic buildings, and museum grounds create a compelling backdrop for displaying concours-grade cars and motorcycles.

FULL SCHEDULE & TICKET PRICING

• Show Name: Dayton Concours d’Elegance 2026
• Date: Sunday, September 20, 2026
• Time: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
• Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 at the door, $10 for children ages 3–17, free for Dayton History members and children 2 and under
• Location: Carillon Historical Park, 1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton, Ohio 45409
• Show Name: Concours Preview Party
• Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
• Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Tickets: Member and non-member pricing is listed by Dayton History; the official public-facing sources confirm the Preview Party is ticketed and includes food, drinks, music, and a silent auction
• Location: Carillon Historical Park, Dayton, Ohio

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS BY DAY

Saturday, September 19, 2026

The Preview Party offers a first look at the featured vehicles, accompanied by live music, food and beverages, a silent auction, and an automotive art pavilion.

Sunday, September 20, 2026

The Concours display officially opens at 10:30 AM. The day includes judging, public viewing, live demonstrations, and concludes with the awards ceremony later in the afternoon.

EVENT SUMMARY

Dayton Concours d’Elegance 2026 | Carillon Historical Park, Dayton, Ohio | Concours d’Elegance