Des Moines Concours d’Elegance<sup>™</sup>

2023 Des Moines Concours Program Available

Posted on February 22, 2024 by Julie West

The 2023 Des Moines Concours was a huge success! The downloadable program shares photos and stories about all of the exhibitors, including each of the class winners and Best of Show. Children’s Cancer Connection winners are also featured in the program, along with our Star Cars and generous sponsors.

The 44-page program can be downloaded for free. Feel free to share and/or print.

Visit our Programs page.

2023 Concours Highlights and Winners

Posted on December 10, 2023 by Julie West

Record-Breaking Turnout and Event Highlights Mark the 2023 Des Moines Concours d’Elegance

The 2023 Des Moines Concours d’Elegance, held on September 10, 2023, attracted a record-breaking turnout of over 20,000 attendees to the heart of downtown Des Moines. This year’s event was “A Celebration of the Art & Design of the Automobile,” and proudly marked its 23rd year as the Midwest’s premier annual exhibition of distinctive antique, vintage, classic, and special interest motor vehicles. Each year, Des Moines Concours is managed and staffed by over 80 dedicated volunteers. The purpose and mission of the Iowa Automotive Heritage Foundation is to enhance and promote the automotive heritage of Iowa and the Midwest through educational projects and public awareness programs that celebrate automotive art and design and highlight the social and economic benefits of our automotive heritage.

Event Highlights

The 2023 Des Moines Concours d’Elegance featured several elements that contributed to the event:

12 individual classes totaling 120 cars and 25 motorcycles were exhibited.
A 17’x10′ Jumbo Screen from Insane Impact displayed captivating content, including a 3-minute video at the top of each hour and scrolling sponsor logos throughout the event. An extensive sound system provided by Light This Productions ensured that every visitor could immerse themselves fully in the experience.
Radio-Controlled Car Racetrack: Hobby Haven sponsored a thrilling RC racetrack on 12th Street, entertaining attendees of all ages.
Selfie Photo Booth: Sponsored by Snap-on Tools and featuring a 1930 Model A gave visitors a chance to capture memories.
Multiple food and service vendors lined 13th Street, offering a range of food and services for attendees.

2023 Sponsor and Donor Recognition

The success of the 2023 Des Moines Concours d’Elegance would not have been possible without the generous support of its sponsors and donors, with special thanks extended to the Premier Chevy Dealers, Polk County Board of Supervisors, and all contributors who played a important role in making this event a smashing success. Proceeds from the event supports Children’s Cancer Connection, an organization dedicated to assisting Iowa families impacted by childhood cancer.

We were honored to have some incredible guests at the 2023 Des Moines Concours d’Elegance. Jennifer Hines, CEO of Children’s Cancer Connection, shared inspiring opening remarks and announced the CCC award winners. Our Main Emcee, Todd Magel, kept the event engaging, and Adam Wanie from Karl Chevrolet-Stuart presented the Corvette 70th Anniversary Class Awards. Lou Sipolt, our American Muscle Class Celebrity Judge, presented the class awards. Heather Lee was the Corvette 70th Anniversary Class Celebrity Judge and Michael Miano joined from Krause Group presenting the awards to the Exotic Class winners.

Des Moines Concours 2023 Best of Show and First Place Awards

Best of Show and 1^st Place in Classics: 1930 Rolls-Royce Phantom II owned by Irving Jensen of Milford, Iowa

Exotics: 1969 Marcos GT 3L owned by Mark and Penny Doubet of Mount Vernon, Iowa

American Muscle: 1970 Plymouth AAR Cuda owned by Jim Wesanto of Nashwauk, Minnesota

Space Age Collectibles: 1965 Chevrolet Corvair Monza Convertible owned by Brian and Robin Ische of Beloit, Wisconsin

Atomic Age Collectibles: 1951 Nash Healey Alloy Roadster owned by Paul and Pam Friskopp of Johnston, Iowa

Early Collectibles: 1932 Studebaker Commander Regal Sedan Model 71 owned by Deanna and Harold Manley of Newton, Iowa

Preservation: 1973 Volkswagen Super Beetle Sedan owned by Tim McEntee of Waukee, Iowa

Nash Metropolitan 70th Anniversary: 1960 Nash Metropolitan owned by Jim Marmon of Urbandale, Iowa

Motorcycles: 1978 Rickman Honda CR750 owned by Edward and Tiffin Kunath of Waterloo, Iowa

Antiques: 1916 Cadillac Type 53 7-Passenger Touring owned by Andy and Anne Flagge of Mason City, Iowa

Corvette 70th Anniversary: 1967 Chevrolet Corvette owned by Jeromy Burgmaier of Creston, Iowa

Riviera 60th Anniversary: 1965 Buick Riviera GS owned by Kendall and Lori Reed of West Des Moines, Iowa

Children’s Cancer Connection 1^st Place Award: 1953 Packard Caribbean owned by Michael Neighbour and Jeff Neighbour of Ankeny, Iowa

There’s something for everyone at the Des Moines Concours!

Posted on August 22, 2023August 22, 2023 by Julie West

Here’s what you can expect on Sunday, September 10th:

Enjoy the closed down streets and wide-open grassy areas at the Pappajohn Sculpture Park with your family and friends
Twelve different classes of cars & motorcycles will be on display. The exhibitors will be ready to share their personal stories and history of their vehicles
Celebrating 70 years of the Corvette with 17 exhibitors with vehicles from 1953 to 2023
1 of the 17 Corvettes being featured is a 1963 Corvette Z06 along with an amazing display from the Premier Chevy Dealers, the Concours Presenting Sponsor
Be sure to check out the 2021 Iowa State University PrISUm Solar Car
Radio-controlled car racetrack for all ages sponsored by Hobby Haven
Photo booth sponsored by Snap-on Tools
Watch the digital jumbo screen showcasing our sponsors and don’t miss a thing with the extensive sound system featuring interviews with our exhibitors, sponsors and attendees
Multiple food and service & vendor booths
Emcees Steve Karlin and Todd Magel will be bringing their love of the automobile to the Awards Ceremony at 2:45pm. Following the ceremony is the rumble of the Roar at Four

Because of organizations like the Iowa Automotive Heritage Foundation, in 2022, four Children’s Cancer Connection summer camp sessions provided 55 families, for a total of 256 campers, an opportunity to connect with others on a similar journey and experience camp together. Help us continue the Foundation’s commitment in 2023!

Create Lasting Memories at Des Moines Concours

Posted on August 14, 2023 by Julie West

Create Lasting Memories at Des Moines Concours d’Elegance – September 10, 2023: A Celebration of Automotive Artistry and Philanthropy

Are you ready for 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 September 10, 2023. This premier event will transform the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park in downtown Des Moines into a breathtaking display of vintage and classic motor vehicles, highlighting the artistic evolution and remarkable innovations that have shaped the automotive industry over the years.

A Showcase of Classic Elegance

The Des Moines Concours d’Elegance is more than just an exhibition; it’s an immersive experience that invites you to step back in time and witness the automotive world’s evolution. With a meticulously curated collection of 12 classes of vehicles, ranging from Antiques to Rivieras, Corvettes to Nash Metropolitans, 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.

A Revved-Up Event for All

This year, the Des Moines Concours promises even more to see for attendees of all ages. Among the highlights, you’ll find a captivating photo booth featuring a Model T, a thrilling radio-controlled car racetrack, and a selection of exciting activities for the entire family. It’s not just an exhibition; it’s a celebration that brings people together to share their enthusiasm for classic automobiles and automotive heritage. Heather Lee, LAZER 103.3 On Air Talent and a respected Guest Judge at the 2022 Des Moines Concours d’Elegance, will be in attendance this year.

Driven By Heart

Beyond the awe-inspiring collection of vehicles, the 2023 Des Moines Concours d’Elegance holds a deeper purpose. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Children’s Cancer Connection (CCC), an organization dedicated to supporting Iowa families impacted by childhood cancer. Through generous fundraising and donor efforts, CCC provides educational resources, support outings, camp programs, events and other outreach to more than 760 Iowa families at no cost to them. By attending and participating in this event you’re contributing to a cause that truly matters.

A Weekend of Extravaganza

The Des Moines Concours d’Elegance isn’t just a single-day affair; it’s a weekend-long celebration of automotive culture and community. Mark your calendars for September 8th, 9th, and 10th, and get ready for a series of captivating events:

Friday, September 8th: Kick off the festivities with the 2nd Annual Des Moines Concours Charity Gala at the elegant Stine Barn in West Des Moines. The evening promises quality entertainment from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm, offering a fantastic way to start the weekend.
Saturday, September 9th: Embark on the 17th Annual Heartland Driving Tour at 7:30 am, 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, September 10th: The grand finale arrives with the Des Moines Concours d’Elegance at the Pappjohn Sculpture Park. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., witness over 150 meticulously restored cars, explore a lively midway featuring food and merchandise vendors, and engage in family-friendly activities like the radio-controlled car race track and a captivating photo booth.

Shift Into Gear and Join the Celebration

Whether you’re a dedicated automotive enthusiast, a casual admirer of timeless design, or a family looking for an exciting day out, the 2023 Des Moines Concours d’Elegance offers something for everyone. With free admission and the opportunity to make a difference through donations, there’s no reason not to be a part of this remarkable event.

For more information, schedule details, and to stay updated with the latest news, visit the official website at https://desmoinesconcours.com/. You can also follow the event’s journey on Facebook at www.facebook.com/desmoinesconcours. Your attendance at the Des Moines Concours d’Elegance isn’t just an event—it’s an experience that celebrates art, innovation, and community while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families through the Children’s Cancer Connection.

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Daryl Metzger
Daryl Metzger serves on the Board of Trustees for the Iowa Automotive Heritage Foundation. Born and raised in the Des Moines area, Daryl attended Urbandale Schools (K-12) and holds a degree in Architecture from Iowa State University. Now retired, he practiced architecture in Des Moines for 44 years. Favorite projects include Reiman Gardens, ISU, DM downtown YMCA and Pool, Josephs Jewelry and recently completed Haviland Residence. An avid “Car Guy” and photographer, he has enjoyed capturing images at many of the great tracks and car venues across America and Europe.

2023 Concours Classes Announced

Posted on April 24, 2023April 24, 2023 by Julie West

The 2023 Des Moines Concours Committee is pleased to announce the 13 classes that will be on display September 10, 2023 at the Pappajohn Sculpture Park in downtown Des Moines. These classes include four special featured classes which celebrate special automotive anniversaries or luxury.

2023 Full Class List

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 1973
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
Riviera 60th Anniversary (new) – Buick’s personal luxury cars produced from 1963 to 1973
Alfa Romeo (new)– Celebrating the luxury/sport automobile manufacturer of Milan
Corvette 70th Anniversary(new)– Eight generations of the grand touring American icon.
Nash Metropolitan 70th Anniversary (new) – The pioneering subcompact economy car

Applications Are Now Being Accepted

It’s easy to apply to be an exhibitor! Once your application has been submitted and reviewed for completeness, you will receive an e-mail confirming receipt and any next steps you may need to take.

The class chairs review the applications, contact applicants with any questions and then send letters accepting or rejecting the entry in a timely manner. The deadline to apply is August 1^st, but we recommend applying as soon as possible as some classes fill quickly.

APPLY TODAY!