If you’re a car guy and you’re in Pebble Beach, Calif., in August, you’re probably there for one thing, and one thing only: the Concours d’Elegance. It’s truly one of the automotive world’s premier events, and something every classic car lover should see at least once in their lifetime. On the flip side, a car show of a different color also takes place during Pebble Beach Auto Week: the Concours d’LeMons. Located at Laguna Grande Park in nearby Seaside, Calif., the Concours d’LeMons has been described by promoters as “an ugly oil stain on the Pebble Beach Auto Week.” Unlike the much more well-known Concours d’Elegance, you won’t find high-end collector cars at the Concours d’LeMons. No, this show caters to cars that only really, shall we say, open minded enthusiasts could love… enthusiasts that really believe beauty is in the eye of the beholder. This year the LeMons was sponsored by our friends at Hagerty, as well as Grassroots Motorsports magazine. Grassroots publisher, Tim Suddard, says, “We do these events because we love the idea and the people who find, fix up and share these wacky, unloved cars.”

To give you an idea of the show’s bread and butter, competitors vied for awards in categories such as:

“Unmitigated Gaul” – won by Matt Spielberg’s 1964 Citroën “Ami Break” (Already Broken). Matt’s award included a lemon shaped cutting board, and a bag of French-related dollar store items. 

“Soul Sucking Japanese Appliance” – won by a 1995 Nissan Altima turned “Mad Maxima”.

“Kitschiest Car” – won by a hideous, although original, 1996 Subaru SVX AWD.

“Worst of Show” – won by Rene Aguirre and his 1964 Ford Galaxie, which has been converted for off-road racing. (Oh, like you’ve never thought about crossing the desert in a Galaxie?)

As we said, this show is for the open-minded! But, it’s also about having fun, and I assure you that every one in attendance had a good time.

Of course, to see a little bit of everything, from traditional beauties to offbeat one-offs, you can visit the Pomona Swap Meet & Classic Car Show. With seven events each year, there’s always something to catch your eye, and usually something to catch your heart. Check out our Facebook page to see just what we mean!