The Watkins Glen Grand Prix!
September, 11th
The Watkins Glen Grand Prix Festival celebrates the birthplace of American road racing with a full day dedicated to the village’s motorsports heritage. Throughout downtown Watkins Glen, vintage sports cars line the streets, historic race tributes bring the past to life, and the original Grand Prix road course becomes the centerpiece of the celebration. What began as a tribute to the legendary street races of 1948–1952 has grown into one of the Finger Lakes’ most distinctive annual events, drawing car enthusiasts, collectors, and visitors from across the country.
Experience Includes:
• View hundreds of vintage, classic, and historic sports cars throughout downtown Watkins Glen
• Explore Franklin Street as it transforms into a pedestrian-only festival district filled with vehicles, vendors, food, and activities
• Watch the Grand Prix Tribute as selected vintage race cars drive the original 6.6-mile street circuit through the village
• Experience the history of the roads that helped establish Watkins Glen as a legendary name in American motorsports
• Attend motorsports presentations, historical exhibits, and racing heritage events throughout the day.
Ideal for:
• :Vintage and classic car enthusiasts
Racing fans interested in motorsports history
Collectors and automotive hobbyists
• Couples looking for a unique Finger Lakes day trip
• Visitors exploring Watkins Glen beyond the race track
• Anyone interested in experiencing the original streets where American road racing began
• Anyone interested in hot air balloons, live music, and winery experiences
Plan your experience
The Grand Prix Festival offers more than a car show—it’s an opportunity to experience Watkins Glen’s racing history where it happened. Spend time exploring downtown displays, watching vintage race cars navigate the original road course, and enjoying the festival atmosphere throughout the village. Many guests choose to pair the festival with additional stops in Watkins Glen, creating a day that combines motorsports heritage, local dining, and Finger Lakes exploration at their own pace.