Best Car Shows in Ontario

by Lori Straus

With the sun finally shining and the snow melting away in many parts of Ontario, auto show season is around the corner. In this blog post, we’ll highlight a few of our favourite automotive events so you can start planning your calendar.

Cobble Beach Concours d’Elegance

“Concours d’elegance” is French for “competition of elegance.” The concept for this kind of car show originated in France in the 17th century. Aristocrats used to parade their carriages through the parks of Paris on weekends and holidays in the summer. Fast forward four centuries and you have the Cobble Beach Concours d’Elegance, now in its ninth year, which features rare breeds and classic cars restored to better-than-factory conditions.

Taking place September 18 & 19, 2021.

Wheels on the Danforth

This automotive event claims it is the only street-judged car show in Toronto. Boasting hundreds of hot rods, classics, muscle cars, tuners, exotics, and race cars, it’s a haven for car enthusiasts.

And bring the kids! The Wheels on the Danforth festival includes buskers, live bands, and a kids’ zone.

Though we know you’ll be showing them all your favourite cars first.

Taking place August 14, 2021.

Canadian International Auto Show

You might still refer to it as the Toronto Auto Show. We secretly do, too. This one definitely belongs in a blog post about the best auto shows in Ontario. With over 650,000 square feet of exhibits, displays, and attractions, this auto show is a pilgrimage for many of the 334,000+ visitors who attend annually.

Sadly, though, the in-person show has been postponed to 2022.

In a news release dated November 20, 2020, the Canadian International Auto Show announced it would replace the 2021 show with the virtual Total Automotive Experience on the auto show’s website. Organizers hope to return to their renowned in-person event in February 2022.

Drive Festival

But September needn’t feel devoid of car shows. The Drive Festival in Bowmanville, which is about 45 minutes northeast of Toronto, might fill your tank.

Here, automotive enthusiasts will find four test-drive tracks, the latest in automotive technology, and a host of exotic, manufacturer, and classic cars. Own a car built by an elite car manufacturer? Apply to the Dream Car Speed Run, where you can drive your car at speed in front of thousands of spectators.

Taking place September 10-12, 2021.

Keep Yourself Informed

As 2021 passes, we find ourselves in increasingly grey areas because of the pandemic. Whatever auto show you’d like to attend, stay informed. Health guidelines are shifting almost daily now, and no one really knows what to expect as this year progresses.

But many organizations are already planning outdoor events, so keep your eyes peeled for anything happening near you. Whatever this year brings, we’re certain you’ll be able to enjoy at least one outdoor automotive event!