The Des Moines Concours Returns Sept. 12-13 for a Weekend of Automotive Excellence and Community Impact

The Des Moines Concours d’Elegance, Iowa’s premier exhibition of vintage, classic and special-interest vehicles, returns the weekend of Sept. 12–13, 2026, in Downtown Des Moines. Presented by the Iowa Automotive Heritage Foundation, the Concours celebrates the art, design evolution and innovation of the automobile while supporting two important charitable initiatives across Iowa.

Held surrounding the internationally recognized John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park, the Des Moines Concours transforms Downtown DSM streets into a curated showcase of remarkable vehicles from across generations. The event is free and open to the public.

Driven by a Greater Purpose

Proceeds from the 2026 Des Moines Concours will benefit:

Children’s Cancer Connection (CCC), whose mission is to connect Iowa families affected by childhood cancer through programs that encourage relationships and strengthen community.
The Des Moines Concours Automotive Heritage Grant, administered by the Iowa Automotive Heritage Foundation, which provides project enablement funding to high school automotive education programs across Iowa. These grants are funded in part through the Red Flag Tour of Iowa.

“Part of what makes the Des Moines Concours special is the way it brings people together around a shared appreciation for automotive history, craftsmanship and community,” said Scott Diehn, Board of Trustees member for the Iowa Automotive Heritage Foundation. “Whether you’re a lifelong collector, a casual enthusiast or someone simply looking for a memorable weekend in Downtown Des Moines, there’s something here for everyone — and every visit helps support meaningful causes across Iowa.”

Exhibitor Applications Now Open

Applications for the 2026 Des Moines Concours are now being accepted through Friday, July 31, 2026 at desmoinesconcours.com/exhibiting.

Vehicle participation is free, and each entry is carefully selected to create a world-class showcase of automotive history, innovation and design. Vehicles are evaluated on authenticity, condition, rarity, engineering, historical significance and overall craftsmanship. Please note that replicas, reproductions and modified vehicles are not eligible for exhibition.

The 2026 Concours will feature an exciting mix of returning and special classes, offering something for every automotive enthusiast. Guests can explore everything from brass-era antiques and elegant classics to powerful muscle cars, sleek exotics, motorcycles and beautifully preserved survivors from decades past.

The special classes for 2026 include the Cars of Pixar’s Cars movies and a celebration of Pontiac’s 100th Anniversary.

Saturday, Sept. 12 – Des Moines Concours Charity Gala

The weekend begins with the highly anticipated Des Moines Concours Charity Gala on Saturday, Sept. 12, at the beautiful Krause Gateway Center in Des Moines.

This elegant evening will feature fine dining, entertainment, exclusive vehicles, cocktails and special experiences — all while supporting Children’s Cancer Connection and the Des Moines Concours Automotive Heritage Grant.

Tickets sales along with additional information on Gala programming and featured guests can be found at desmoinesconcours.com/gala.

Sunday, Sept. 13 – The Main Event

The 2026 Des Moines Concours takes place on Sunday, Sept. 13, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Downtown DSM surrounding the Pappajohn Sculpture Park.

Guests can enjoy:

An extensive lineup of vintage, classic and special-interest vehicles
Family-friendly activities and exhibits
Food trucks and local vendors
Opportunities to meet vehicle owners and hear the stories behind the cars

From brass-era automobiles and post-war collectibles to muscle cars, motorcycles and modern exotics, the Concours offers something for enthusiasts of every generation.

Sponsorship Opportunities Available

The Des Moines Concours relies on the support of sponsors and community partners to continue creating an extraordinary event year after year while supporting impactful nonprofit initiatives.

Organizations interested in sponsoring the 2026 Des Moines Concours can learn more about available opportunities or request a custom sponsorship package at desmoinesconcours.com/become-a-sponsor.

The event team welcomes partnerships of all sizes and is eager to work collaboratively with businesses and organizations throughout Iowa and beyond.

For additional event information, exhibitor applications, sponsorship opportunities or donation details, visit desmoinesconcours.com.

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