Visitors, start your engines! The best car auctions and events in the world roar back into Scottsdale this winter, just in time to usher in the 100th anniversary of iconic Route 66.
While the Mother Road is a few hours north of the city, Scottsdale offers plenty of ways for car lovers to get their kicks locally.
Scottsdale has been one of the premier locations for exotic and classic car auctions for decades. During that time, the number of auctions and related car events has grown. Today, the city is a must-stop destination for car lovers and collectors around the globe every January.
Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction
The Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction started the city's love affair with all things auto when it launched in 1971. Today, it’s a world-renowned car lifestyle extravaganza that draws over 100,000 people to the annual eight-day event.
Slated for January 17-25, 2026, at WestWorld in North Scottsdale, visitors can expect to see exotic, classic and celebrity cars cross the auction block. Last year, over 6,000 bidders competed for more than 2,000 cars, generating over $193 million in sales, plus an additional $6.2 million raised through five charity vehicle auctions.
The public is invited to attend with general admission tickets or by booking special experience packages that include things like a behind-the-block tour, opening night celebration event, private luxury suites, and even the chance to watch the action from Craig Jackson’s suite.
And if you just can’t wait until January, you're in luck! The 4-day Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Fall Auction will take place Oct. 15-18, 2025, also at WestWorld of Scottsdale. Guests can witness the bidding action in the arena, view hundreds of unique collector automobiles, visit the all-new Barrett-Jackson Fan Zone, take thrill rides in the latest vehicles and visit the vibrant Exhibitor Marketplace. (Photo credit: Barrett-Jackson)
RM Sotheby’s Auto Auction
The RM Sotheby’s auto auction puts the pedal to the metal for the 26th year in the Scottsdale area. Held in January at the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa, it showcases pre-war classics to modern supercars. Last year, bidders from 19 countries bought over $31 million of automobiles.
The public can view the cars during a free preview the day before the auction to see rare automotive masterpieces like a 1958 Ferrari 250 GT LWB Berlinetta ‘Tour de France’ by Scaglietti or a 1931 Bentley 8-Litre Convertible Victoria by Murphy that showcased last year’s line-up. (Photo: 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra)
Bonham Scottsdale Auction
The Bonham Scottsdale Auction is back for another lap at the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa. Last year, 77 cars crossed the block with the top sale a 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing. The public can purchase tickets for the January 22, 2026, preview day with the gavel dropping on the following day. (Photo credit: BonhamsCars)
Arizona Concours d’Elegance
A beautiful car is a masterpiece. The 2026 Arizona Concours d’Elegance celebrates the best of these sculptures in motion on January 18, 2026, under the sun at the Scottsdale Civic Center. A professionally curated and judged group of 100 rare and prestigious cars will be on display for the public to drool over. Proceeds from the event benefit local art programs and Make-A-Wish Arizona.
Arizona Car Week
No matter what car auctions you attend, you can get into the automotive spirit with over 40 events that comprise Arizona Car Week. From January 16-25, 2026, there are car shows, drive-ins, rally tours, driving events, seminars and coffee-style gatherings celebrating car culture throughout Arizona. (Photo credit: The Exotics Network)
With engines revving and auction paddles flying, Scottsdale transforms into the ultimate playground for anyone with gasoline pumping through their veins. While Route 66 has the history, Scottsdale has the horsepower. Buckle up and get ready for a wild ride, but remember to set a budget—nothing screams “impulse buy” like falling in love with a Bugatti under the Scottsdale sun.
