National Collector Car Appreciation Day

A vintage red convertible car with shiny chrome details parked in a picturesque street, surrounded by colorful autumn leaves.. — National collector car appreciation day illustration

Calling all car enthusiasts! Get ready to rev your engines because National Collector Car Appreciation Day is here! This special day celebrates the timeless beauty and nostalgia of collector cars. Whether you're a gearhead, a car aficionado, or just someone who appreciates classic automobiles, National Collector Car Appreciation Day is the perfect occasion to show some love to these four-wheeled wonders.

When is Collector Car Appreciation Day?

It's national collector car appreciation day on the 10th July.

The Birth of National Collector Car Appreciation Day

Every year on the second Friday in July, collector car enthusiasts from all over the country come together to celebrate National Collector Car Appreciation Day. This annual event was first established by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and falls under the umbrella of SEMA Action Network (SAN). For those unfamiliar with SEMA, it's an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the automotive aftermarket industry.

The idea behind National Collector Car Appreciation Day is to raise awareness and celebrate the role that classic cars play in our society. These beautiful machines are not simply means of transportation; they are a symbol of style, engineering prowess, and our collective automotive heritage.

How to Celebrate

Wondering how you can join in on the fun? Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to celebrate National Collector Car Appreciation Day:

Attend a local car show: Check your community events calendar for any car shows or exhibitions taking place near you, and make sure to show up in style.
Organize your own car meet-up: Gather your friends or fellow car enthusiasts and plan a gathering to showcase your beloved collector cars. It's a great opportunity to bond over a shared passion.
Hit the road: Take your vintage beauty for a cruise down memory lane. Enjoy the open road and let the wind tousle your hair (if you have any).
Share your love for collector cars on social media: Post pictures and stories of your favorite collector cars, or join online communities dedicated to vintage automobiles.

A Collector Car Fun Fact

Did you know that one of the most expensive collector cars ever sold was a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, which fetched a staggering $48.4 million at an auction? Talk about driving up the price!

History behind the term 'Collector Car Appreciation'

1888

The invention of the automobile

In 1888, Karl Benz invented the first automobile, the Benz Patent-Motorwagen. This marked the beginning of a new era in transportation, revolutionizing the way people traveled and opening up opportunities for car enthusiasts and collectors.

1896

The birth of car collecting

In 1896, the first known instance of car collecting was recorded when H.O. Duncan of Akron, Ohio began amassing a collection of cars. Duncan's interest in preserving and collecting classic automobiles laid the foundation for the future appreciation of vintage cars.

1930s

The rise of nostalgia

During the 1930s, nostalgia for the early days of automotive history started to emerge. People began to appreciate the craftsmanship, elegance, and significance of vintage cars. Automobile manufacturers and enthusiasts started actively preserving and showcasing these historical vehicles, sparking a growing interest in collector cars.

1937

The Antique Automobile Club of America is founded

In 1937, the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) was founded, promoting the preservation and appreciation of antique automobiles. The AACA played a crucial role in connecting car collectors and educating the public about the value and heritage of these vehicles.

1950s

The expansion of collector car hobby

During the 1950s, the collector car hobby gained significant momentum. Car enthusiasts started to organize car shows, rallies, and swap meets, providing platforms for collectors to display and trade their vehicles. This period marked a widespread appreciation for collector cars as a hobby and investment.

1970s

The emergence of specialty auctions

In the 1970s, specialty collector car auctions started to gain popularity. Auction houses such as Barrett-Jackson and Mecum Auctions began hosting high-profile events, attracting collectors and enthusiasts from around the world. These auctions not only provided a platform for buying and selling collector cars but also elevated the status and value associated with them.

1986

National Collector Car Appreciation Day is established

In 1986, the U.S. Congress officially recognized the importance of collector cars by designating the second Friday of July as National Collector Car Appreciation Day. This annual celebration honors the cultural significance and economic impact of collector cars, encouraging enthusiasts to showcase their vehicles and raise awareness about automotive heritage.

Did you know?

Did you know that one of the most expensive collector cars ever sold was a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, which fetched a staggering $48.4 million at an auction? Talk about driving up the price!