Unexceptional car show returns this summer
The 2026 Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional returns to Grimsthorpe Castle in Lincolnshire on July 25, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and automotive culture. Unlike traditional car shows, this event focuses on pre-2002 vehicles that once dominated roads but are now rare. Attendees can explore everyday classics like the 1989 Proton Saga 1.5 GL Black Knight, which previously won the festival’s top prize. The event aims to celebrate cars that shaped daily life but are now overlooked by mainstream collectors.
The Concours de l’Ordinaire
The festival’s centerpiece is the Concours de l’Ordinaire, a competition that mirrors high-profile concours events but with a twist: many entries are available for purchase. Past winners include the Skoda Favorit and Daihatsu Applause, highlighting the quirky appeal of these vehicles. This year’s competition promises to feature more eclectic choices, appealing to both casual fans and serious collectors seeking rare, affordable finds.
Curated Displays and New Exhibits
2026’s festival introduces enhanced curated displays, including vehicles from The Telegraph’s ‘Britain’s Rarest Cars’ series and the British Motor Museum’s extensive collection. A new section, the Long Lost Families area, will showcase cars with intriguing stories of ownership and restoration. These exhibits aim to educate attendees about the historical significance of these vehicles, which once formed the backbone of everyday transportation.
For those who prefer not to focus solely on cars, the festival offers live entertainment. Jonny Smith and Richard Porter of the car-themed podcast Smith & Sniff will host quizzes and a live session, while indie band Spilt Milk will perform. The mix of humor and music adds a casual, approachable atmosphere, making the event accessible to a broader audience.
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The FotU forecourt is designed for buyers and sellers, allowing attendees to purchase or list everyday classics on-site. This area replicates the retro used car buying experience with Hagerty-style information sheets, streamlining the process for those seeking to acquire or part with a vehicle. It’s a practical addition for enthusiasts looking to connect with fellow collectors in person.
Hagerty Driver’s Club Perks
Members of the Hagerty Driver’s Club gain exclusive access to a dedicated area with free snacks, drinks, and a Scalextric set. They also receive 25% off festival tickets, adding value for longtime members. These perks highlight the festival’s effort to build a community around everyday cars, blending nostalgia with modern conveniences.
The festival’s focus on unexceptional vehicles challenges traditional notions of automotive value. By celebrating cars that once defined normalcy, it invites attendees to reflect on how design and function have evolved. For many, this event is more than a showcase—it’s a reminder of the vehicles that shaped daily life before the era of hyper-specialization.
