Best Free Things to Do During Monterey Car Week
Aug 4, 2026
Monterey Car Week is known for its exclusive events and world-famous collector cars, but you don’t need an expensive ticket to experience the excitement. From spectacular street displays to luxury supercars cruising the coastline, some of the week's best experiences are completely free.
Stroll Through the Monterey Car Week Kickoff
Date: Friday, August 7, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Alvarado Street, Downtown Monterey
This official Monterey Car Week kickoff begins the festivities in the heart of Downtown Monterey. Alvarado Street fills with an impressive collection of cars, from vintage classics to exotic performance vehicles. You can also find many vendors offering food, merchandise, live music, and other activities, making it the perfect place to start your Car Week adventure.
Werks Reunion
Date: Friday, August 14, 2026
Time: 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: Monterey Pines Golf Course
Werks Reunion is one of the most exciting free events during Monterey Car Week. Hosted by the Porsche Club of America, this annual gathering brings together an incredible collection of Porsche vehicles, from pristine classics to modern performance cars. Admission is free for attendees, while parking is available for a $40 cash only fee.
The event offers a festive atmosphere with automotive vendors, breakfast and lunch options, and plenty of opportunities to explore the impressive displays. A highlight of the event is the judged Porsche competition, where standout vehicles are recognized for their condition, history, and presentation. 
Photo Courtesy of Werks Reunion
Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: Broadway Avenue, Seaside
Exotics on Broadway is a must-see event, with dozens of Ferraris, Lamborghinis, McLarens, Porsches, and other high-performance vehicles filling Broadway Avenue. General admission allows visitors to experience the excitement and view incredible vehicles throughout the event, while optional paid areas may also be available for guests looking for a more exclusive experience.
On top of the incredible displays of cars, visitors can enjoy automotive vendors, local food, merchandise, and more. The event attracts thousands of visitors every year, making it one of the most anticipated experiences during Monterey car shows. 
Photo Courtesy of Exotics on Broadway
Concours d’Lemons
Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 1:30 PM
Location: Seaside City Hall Lawn
Concours d’Lemons is one of the more unusual Monterey Car Week events. This event embraces the quirky and odd side of automotive history, featuring unusual imports, strange builds, and forgotten innovations. Every car here is a misfit with its own unique identity, making the event perfect for photo opportunities and a fun change of pace from traditional Monterey Car Week events. 
Photo Courtesy of Concours d'Lemons
Car Watch Around the Peninsula
One of the best parts about Monterey Car Week is that between events and throughout the week, you can find collector cars, million-dollar classics, and modern hypercars cruising the streets, making casual sightseeing an attraction of its own.
Some of the best places to catch incredible cars include Ocean Avenue in Carmel-by-the-Sea, where luxury cars line the streets alongside Carmel’s many shops and restaurants. Another popular spot is Cannery Row in Downtown Monterey, where incredible cars can be found parked along the waterfront or cruising through town. Sometimes the best Monterey car show isn’t in a venue, but on the streets. 
Photo Courtesy of Monterey Touring Vehicles
Explore More at Portola Hotel & Spa
If you’re visiting the area, be sure to stop by Portola Hotel & Spa to see some of the cars on display around the hotel. Grab a drink at Peter B’s and enjoy all the Car Week festivities and atmosphere. Whether you're here for one event or spending the week exploring, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience for car enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. As you make your way between events, be mindful of road closures, watch for pedestrians, and drive safely so everyone can enjoy the week!
Featured image courtesy of Werks Reunion
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