Writer Lara Piu

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he second annual Grand Prix of Scottsdale roars through the city’s downtown area throughout the first weekend in November. Inspired by the Grand Prix of Monaco, this unique vintage mini race enables racing teams, spectators and participants alike to step back in time and experience the glory of the Roaring ‘20s.

Surrounded by classic vintage cars from that era, the event is a three-day cinematic celebration complete with a lawn party, gala, food, music, vintage kart racing and, of course, awards. All of the hoopla supports downtown Scottsdale while raising a ton of fun and money.

“We have created a legendary event that will forever be recognized as a tribute to American heritage, community accord and a first-of-its-kind experience that started in our hometown of Scottsdale,” says Jack Gee, Grand Prix of Scottsdale co-producer. “There is nothing more rewarding than to see an idea turn into reality and become a success.”

More than 20,000 people are expected to experience this Gatsby-like event that turns back the clock on the streets of downtown Scottsdale. Festivities commence with a Gatsby Under the Stars Gala, held November 4 on the Marshall Way Bridge. The gala is hosted by the Grand Prix’s charity partner, Southwest Human Development, a nonprofit serving 135,000 children and their families each year through more than 40 early childhood programs and services.

New this year is the Gatsby Lawn Party on November 5 and 6, also hosted by Southwest Human Development. This event will provide an eclectic culinary festival experience complete with more than 30 craft beers and wines, with food provided by some of the Valley’s top chefs. Guests are encouraged to wear their finest Gatsby-style attire while enjoying big band music, choreographed dance performances and a special cigar bar complete with club seating.

Also on November 5, Concours d’ Kids will host race-themed crafts, games and a mini Grand Prix driving experience for younger drivers, appropriately named the Grand Prixni.

The main event Grand Prix is held at 11 a.m. on November 6. Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane will serve as the master of ceremonies and pace-car passenger for the race, where up to 40 vintage mini racers branded with a variety of local businesses, corporations and charity logos will navigate around a more than half-mile road course with teams of six drivers. The festivities wrap up at 5 p.m. with the vintage victory trophy presentation, hosted by Victory Brewing Company. The main event is free; visit the website for an auxiliary event timeline and pricing.

grandprixscottsdale.com