The Amelia at 30: Why the annual car classic is important to Northeast Florida

Engines are revving and the show is about to begin at Amelia Island — the car show that is.

The Amelia Concours d`Elegance is a “week of captivating motorsport and luxury lifestyle experiences,” said Matt Orendac, vice chairman of The Amelia. About 500,000 spectators have attended the driving opportunities, auctions, culinary and entertainment experiences at Amelia Island for its annual concours event over the last 30 years. 

Enthusiasts and organizers are expecting a high turnout and fun times for The Amelia’s 30th anniversary this weekend. Ordenac spoke in detail about plans for this year’s event and what its past 30 years of contributions to Northeast Florida’s culture have been like.

Why is The Amelia important?

“The world is just crazy about cars, motorsports and design,” Ordenac said. “There’s just no better time or place to kick off the ‘concours’ car show season than Northeast Florida. The show really puts spectators elbow-to-elbow with the racers they love, the cars they dream of and thousands of fellow enthusiasts.”

This includes vintage race cars on display and at auction. Not to mention the fact that The Amelia’s yearly honorees are all motorsport legends.

“The Amelia has always been considered ‘The Racer’s Concours.’ The event’s connection to the world of motorsport has always been at the core of all we do,” he said.

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How many people attend The Amelia?

Last year, over 27,000 enthusiasts from around the world attended The Amelia festivities, setting a record for the event. Guests come from over 12 countries and 30 states. 

How does The Amelia impact Northeast Florida and the community?

“The Amelia has had a lasting impact on the community over the past three decades in many ways, including charitable contributions totaling more than $4 million,” Orendac said. “Last year alone, The Amelia pledged $150,000 to local nonprofits, including Spina Bifida of Jacksonville, local “Shop with Cops” programs and Community Hospice and Palliative Care.” 

The impact can be felt through the community and camaraderie that has grown annually, he added. It also results in an annual economic impact of around $8.7 million.

Who is being honored at The Amelia this year?

This year’s honoree is Hélio Castroneves, four-time Indy 500 champion, who also recently raced in the Daytona 500. Helio will be at The Amelia alongside some of the most important cars from his career. 

How much money is spent at The Amelia?

The impact of the event also can be measured by the cars sold during the classic car auctions that take place, Ordenac said. Last year, the March classic car auctions in Florida set a record total of $183.8 million. Hagerty’s Broad Arrow auction at the Ritz-Carlton sold more than $63 million. The economic impact of the event is widespread.

Why is The Amelia so popular?

“Every truly great concours is defined by a perfect season and setting,” Ordenac said. “Early Spring on Amelia Island is a beautiful time of year for car enthusiasts to join us, shake off the winter and enjoy the setting and hospitality at the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island.”

How has The Amelia changed or grown in the last 30 years?

“The event has grown over the years, bringing enthusiasts from around the world to experience the beauty of Amelia Island and Northeast Florida,” he said.

Ordenac also noted younger collectors and enthusiasts have been joining the event.

“This reflects what we are also seeing in the overall collector car market, as 1980s and 1990s vehicles become more sought after as collectors who grew up with those vehicles begin to purchase the classics they love,” he said. “To this end, RADwood continues to be a highlight at The Amelia.”

What is RADwood at The Amelia?

RADwood is a “celebration of the ’80s and ’90s automotive lifestyle, a car show that blends period dress with automotive awesomeness,” according to Ordenac. RADwood at The Amelia takes place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at The Golf Club of Amelia Island as part of the Saturday “Cars & Community powered by Mobil 1 Classic Car Oil” event.

What other special events are happening at The Amelia this year?

Actor, race car driver and producer Patrick Dempsey is set to attend a 7 p.m. Friday screening of his docuseries “Back on Track,” which will be followed by a Q&A with Justin Bell, racer Patrick Long and film producer Bobby Akin.

The new immersive culinary experience, Reverie, also will kick off this year. Reverie will feature exclusive, automotive-themed culinary pairings developed by Chef Zane Nesbit, Ritz-Carlton executive sous chef, and immersive entertainment on Thursday. Tickets for all events are available at www.ameliaconcours.com/event/tickets.