Event
Germany's answer to Goodwood isn't trying to be Goodwood. The Classic Days Grand Meeting has developed its own distinct character over eighteen editions – less aristocratic grandeur, more relaxed Rhineland hospitality. Think picnic blankets on manicured lawns, British-inspired garden party atmosphere, and historic racing machinery thundering past on a purpose-built demonstration circuit.
The 2026 edition returns to Rittergut Birkhof, a heritage-listed manor estate near Korschenbroich that became the festival's new home in 2025. The grounds offer over forty hectares of parkland, 200-year-old chestnut and linden alleys, and a 2.6-kilometre track winding through the countryside where Racing Legends bring pre-war grand prix cars, historic sports racers, and single-seaters back to life. For 2026, the organisers are expanding eligibility beyond the traditional 1961 cutoff – expect machinery from more recent decades joining the demonstrations.
The "Jewels in the Park" concours presents carefully selected automobiles in the landscaped gardens surrounding the classicist manor house. Beyond the formal displays, themed gathering areas create distinct micro-communities: Stars & Stripes for American iron, California Dreaming for VW enthusiasts, Land Rover meetings, and Nostalgic Journeys for period-correct camping setups. Over one hundred car clubs stake out their territories across the vast lawns.
The 2026 theme celebrates "Mit Schirm, Charme & Melone" – The Avengers in German – encouraging period dress and adding theatrical flair to the weekend. Celebrity guests including Hans-Joachim Stuck and Lance David Arnold provide driver meet-and-greets and demonstration runs.
Korschenbroich lies just fifteen kilometres north of Düsseldorf, easily reached via the A57. The festival runs Friday through Sunday, with advance ticket purchases strongly recommended – the 2025 premiere attracted around 30,000 visitors.
