INDIANAPOLIS — The Celebration of Automobiles will return May 10-13, 2012, to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, leading into the 96th Indianapolis 500.
According to event organizers, the 2012 event will feature even more exciting activities for fans and participants after a wildly successful inaugural event in 2011. The 2012 Celebration of Automobiles vehicles will honor "The Manufacturers of the Indianapolis 500" and the rich history of the world’s greatest auto race.
Vintage-classic cars from 1920 to 1970, produced by manufacturers participating in the Indianapolis 500 during that era, will be the featured vehicles in 2012. Featured carmakers will include Alfa-Romeo, Auburn, Bentley, Bugatti, Buick, Chrysler, Dodge, Duesenberg, Ferrari, Fiat, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Stutz and many more. Special tribute will be paid to cars from Chevrolet, Honda and Lotus, the three engine manufacturers participating in the IZOD IndyCar Series and Indianapolis 500 starting in 2012.
The inaugural Celebration of Automobiles on May 14 featured more than 200 classic cars from 1911 to 1961 — including many award winners from Concours d’Elegance competitions at revered venues such as Pebble Beach and Amelia Island — on display among some of the most iconic spots at IMS, including the Pagoda Plaza and Legends Row. The event was one of the most memorable highlights of the month-long 100th Anniversary Indianapolis 500, according to IMS.
"We’re thrilled to welcome the return of the Celebration of Automobiles," said Jeff Belskus, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corp. president and CEO. "The feedback from participants and fans was so positive last May, and we were honored to play host to so many beautiful cars and enthusiasts. The Celebration of Automobiles was a magical event and quickly is evolving into another wonderful Month of May tradition in Indianapolis for everyone to enjoy."
The 2012 Celebration of Automobiles will feature an expanded schedule for participants and fans that will include a golf event, a track lap and a new welcome reception at the world-renowned IMS Hall of Fame Museum.
Judging for the Celebration of Automobiles will take place Saturday, May 12 in a variety of classes. Winners will be announced that evening at the awards dinner, which will feature question-and-answer sessions with legendary Indianapolis 500 drivers and IMS Historian Donald Davidson, among other activities.
The 2012 Celebration of Automobiles will be by invitation only, with 200 entries. The entry fee is $100 per owner. For entry information and more information on the Celebration of Automobiles, visit www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com.
