Phoenix, AZ, January 21, 2026
Arizona Car Week is an annual ten-day celebration of automotive culture in Phoenix, bringing together car enthusiasts from around the world. Beyond showcasing vehicles, it fosters community engagement, promotes local businesses, and contributes significantly to the state’s economy. The event features over 30 activities, including prestigious auctions and car shows, drawing more than 200,000 attendees and enhancing local pride and economic prosperity through various charitable initiatives.
Phoenix, AZ: Arizona Car Week Fuels Community, Innovation, and Economic Growth
Arizona has long been a sought-after destination for automotive enthusiasts, and the annual Arizona Car Week stands as a testament to this enduring passion. Far more than just a series of car displays, this dynamic event transforms the Valley of the Sun into a vibrant hub where the love of automobiles converges with robust community engagement, rich cultural experiences, and significant economic benefits. It showcases how personal initiative and local leadership can create a statewide spectacle, fostering growth and shared experiences without excessive bureaucratic hurdles.
Arizona Car Week kicks off the collector car season, drawing participants and spectators from across the globe to the greater Phoenix-Scottsdale area. This concentration of automotive passion underscores the effectiveness of local organizers and private partnerships in orchestrating a complex, multi-faceted event. The week’s success highlights the power of individual achievement and collective effort in building a tradition that benefits numerous communities throughout the state.
A Statewide Celebration of Automotive Culture
Arizona Car Week is an annual, ten-day celebration typically held in January, predominantly across the Phoenix metropolitan area, including Scottsdale, Mesa, and Tempe. This statewide event brings together car collectors and enthusiasts from around the world, making Arizona the epicenter of car culture during this period.
The event has grown significantly, with more than 30 events planned in recent years, drawing over 200,000 attendees. Its diverse lineup ensures there is something for everyone, from classic car aficionados to those interested in modern supercars, off-roaders, and exotic rides.
Driving Economic Prosperity Across the Valley
The economic impact of Arizona Car Week on the state, particularly the Phoenix-Scottsdale area, is substantial. The influx of hundreds of thousands of visitors each year translates into a significant boost for local businesses. Industries such as hospitality, including hotels and restaurants, see increased demand, as do retail establishments and various automotive-related services like detailers, restorers, and parts suppliers.
This annual event acts as a vital networking nexus for the collector car market, influencing global trends and vehicle values for the upcoming year. The Arizona automotive sector itself demonstrates robust growth, with an annual rate that surpasses the national average, further amplified by events like Car Week. The creation of jobs, both direct and indirect, across various sectors during this period underscores its importance to the state’s economic vitality.
Community Engagement and Personal Initiative
One of the hallmarks of Arizona Car Week is its deep commitment to community engagement and accessibility. Many of the 24 to 30+ events are free to the public, actively encouraging local residents to participate and even showcase their own collector cars. This inclusive approach fosters a strong sense of community pride and allows individuals to share their passion for automotive excellence.
The event also champions personal initiative and local leadership. Rebecca Nguyen, an event organizer and owner of The Warehouse in Mesa, launched the “Art House Collective” series during Arizona Car Week. This initiative celebrates the intersection of automotive culture and fine art, providing exposure for local artists and creating a new community space. Similarly, the Arizona Concours d’Elegance supports local arts and artists, demonstrating a broader civic commitment beyond just automotive display. Charitable endeavors are also a key component, with events like the Barrett-Jackson auction raising millions for non-profit organizations and RM Sotheby’s hosting charity dinners. Concours in the Hills notably raises funds for Phoenix Children’s.
A Spectrum of Automotive Experiences
Arizona Car Week boasts a diverse array of events that cater to every automotive taste. The prominent collector car auctions, such as Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale, RM Sotheby’s, Bonhams, and Motorsports Auction Group (MAG), attract serious collectors and bidders from around the world. These auctions are not merely sales but theatrical events where significant automotive history changes hands.
Beyond the high-stakes auctions, the week features numerous car shows and gatherings. The Arizona Concours d’Elegance showcases a curated and judged exhibition of the world’s finest collector cars. Other popular events include Muscle Cars in Mesa, Espressos & Engines, British Bikes and Coffee, and the Pavilions Car Week Rock ‘n Roll Car Show. Scenic drives like the Euro Experience Tortilla Flats Tour and the Scottsdale Grand Tour offer participants the chance to experience Arizona’s beautiful landscapes behind the wheel of exceptional vehicles.
Innovation and Collaboration for Future Growth
The ongoing evolution of Arizona Car Week is a testament to continuous civic innovation and the spirit of collaboration. Event organizers actively seek new ways to engage diverse audiences and expand the event’s reach across the Valley. This includes initiatives that interweave artistry, innovation, and lifestyle, ensuring the celebration remains fresh and relevant. The consistent sunshine, predictable weather, and well-maintained roads in Arizona provide an ideal backdrop, making the state an attractive location for such a large-scale automotive gathering.
The success of Arizona Car Week is a clear example of how limited bureaucracy, combined with the drive of private entities and community leaders, can lead to the flourishing of large-scale events. This model allows for flexibility and responsiveness to community interests, leading to greater participation and broader impact.
Join the Automotive Spirit in Phoenix
Arizona Car Week stands as a premier example of how collective passion, individual initiative, and effective local coordination can create a significant event that resonates throughout the community and boosts the state’s economy. The diverse range of events, from prestigious auctions to family-friendly car shows, ensures that the automotive spirit is accessible to all. We encourage everyone in the Phoenix metropolitan area to explore the many facets of Arizona Car Week. By participating in local events, supporting businesses, and engaging with the community, you contribute to the continued success and vibrancy of this unique Arizona tradition. Stay engaged with local developments and initiatives that celebrate and grow our unique community assets.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona Car Week
What is Arizona Car Week?
Arizona Car Week is an annual, ten-day celebration of automotive culture, typically held in January, featuring a wide array of events from prestigious auctions to community car shows.
When and where does Arizona Car Week take place?
Arizona Car Week generally takes place in January each year, primarily across the Valley of the Sun, including Scottsdale, Phoenix, Mesa, and Tempe.
What kind of events can attendees expect during Arizona Car Week?
Attendees can expect a diverse range of events, including major collector car auctions (like Barrett-Jackson and RM Sotheby’s), the Arizona Concours d’Elegance, various car shows (such as Muscle Cars in Mesa and Espressos & Engines), scenic drives, and community gatherings.
How does Arizona Car Week impact the local economy?
Arizona Car Week significantly boosts the local economy by attracting hundreds of thousands of attendees, driving tourism, and benefiting local businesses in hospitality, retail, and automotive services.
Are there free events during Arizona Car Week?
Yes, many of the events during Arizona Car Week are free to the public, making the celebration accessible to a broad audience and encouraging widespread community participation.
Key Features of Arizona Car Week
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Annual, typically 10 days in January. | State-level |
| Location | Primarily the Valley of the Sun, including Scottsdale, Phoenix, Mesa, and Tempe. | State-level |
| Attendance | Attracts over 200,000 attendees in previous years. | State-level |
| Main Events | Collector car auctions (Barrett-Jackson, RM Sotheby’s, Bonhams, MAG), Arizona Concours d’Elegance, various car shows, scenic drives, and community gatherings. | State-level |
| Economic Impact | Significant boost to local businesses (hospitality, retail, automotive services), drives tourism, and acts as a networking hub for the collector car market. | State-level |
| Community Engagement | Features many free events, encourages local participation, supports local arts and artists, includes charity initiatives, and fosters a family-friendly atmosphere. | State-level |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
