There’s a new event coming to Monterey Car Week in August 2025, which promises to provide a “fresh, accessible venue for a diverse array of vintage, classic, race and rally, and exotic vehicles”, as well as a “luxurious yet relaxed atmosphere away from the downtown crowds”, according to the organisers.
The Paddock is set to make its inaugural appearance on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Bayonet Black Horse golf course on the Monterey Peninsula. This means those who haven’t been able to secure or justify a ticket for the sell-out The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, now have an alternative, more accessible event to attend.
The new event is from the same organiser as Concorso Italiano, which takes place on the Saturday at Bayonet Black Horse. This will allow the two events to share infrastructure and resources. It’s a positive move after last year’s near-disastrous ownership change for Concorso Italiano, which has since been rescued by a new company and staff with long histories of the event.
Tanya Kosta, chairman of The Paddock, said: “For years, Concorso Italiano has offered a non-Italian marque display, and now our parent company International Car Week is offering an expanded version through The Paddock where owners of European, Japanese, American and other automotive pedigrees can display their prized vehicles. This new platform allows us to embrace a wider range of car enthusiasts and showcase a richer diversity of automotive excellence.”
Attendees will have the chance to enhance their Car Week experience by renting one of the limited culinary VIP cabanas, perfect for friends, families, car clubs and other groups to gather while enjoying cars and music. These exclusive spaces can be customised with amenities such as food service and a private bar, providing a perfect gathering spot to socialise and enjoy the show in comfort.
Among the early show highlights, presenting sponsor Saleen will hold its 25th anniversary celebration of the S7 at The Paddock, gathering several dozen owners and their vehicles in an expansive display on the showfield.
Another attraction will be RADwood, the 1980s and ’90s automotive-lifestyle event celebrating music, fashion and the cars of the era. Created in 2017 as a gathering for friends in the San Francisco Bay area, RADwood has become a cult movement across the US, with owners encourage to dress in period-correct attire.
Most of all, the organisers of The Paddock say that keeping the event accessible is a priority, with adult ticket prices starting at $75 and children under-13 getting free entry. There’s more information here.
