10,000 Lakes Concours d’Elegance returns after 5 years — and a Stillwater couple has just the car for it

Sep 11, 2024 at 9:38 PM
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Revving Up for the Comeback of the 10,000 Lakes Concours d'Elegance

After a five-year hiatus, the premier classic car show in Minnesota, the 10,000 Lakes Concours d'Elegance, is making a triumphant return this weekend. The event, which showcases historically significant and extraordinary automobiles, is set to captivate car enthusiasts and the community alike.

Rediscover the Elegance of Vintage Wheels

A Showcase of Automotive Gems

The 10,000 Lakes Concours d'Elegance is poised to dazzle attendees with a stunning collection of over 130 classic cars, each with its own unique story. From the rare 1932 Stutz SV-16 Convertible owned by Stillwater residents Mark and Gloria Desch to the 1931 Stutz DV-32 Convertible Sedan by LeBaron that was the last car to cross the historic Stillwater Lift Bridge, this year's event promises to be a true feast for the senses.The Desches' passion for classic cars began serendipitously when they purchased a 1931 Auburn at an auction in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, years ago. Since then, their collection has grown to include 15 vehicles spanning from 1905 to 1962, each a testament to the craftsmanship and design of a bygone era. The Stutz SV-16 Convertible, which the couple discovered in a barn in Pine River, Minnesota, is a particularly prized possession, with its believed history of being purchased new by a banker in Virginia, Minnesota.

A Diverse Automotive Tapestry

The 10,000 Lakes Concours d'Elegance is not just about the cars, but the stories they hold. Alongside the stunning automobiles, the event will also feature 12 tractors and six motorcycles, each with their own unique place in the history of transportation. This diverse array of vehicles promises to captivate the imagination of attendees, transporting them through the evolution of engineering and design.

A Celebration of Craftsmanship and Passion

Beyond the cars, the 10,000 Lakes Concours d'Elegance offers a multifaceted experience for visitors. Live entertainment, including a performance by Chanhassen Dinner Theater musicians, will set the tone for a day filled with elegance and sophistication. Tastings of wines, beers, gins, and whiskeys will allow attendees to indulge in the finer things in life, while a shopping area featuring art by local creators, antiques, and handmade items will provide ample opportunities to discover unique treasures.For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the event's outdoor cigar deck and play area, complete with craft projects and pony rides, will cater to a range of interests and age groups. The 10,000 Lakes Concours d'Elegance is truly a celebration of the passion and craftsmanship that have defined the classic car community for generations.

Giving Back to the Community

The 10,000 Lakes Concours d'Elegance is not just a showcase of automotive excellence; it is also a platform for giving back to the community. Proceeds from the event will benefit Gillette Children's in St. Paul, a renowned healthcare provider dedicated to improving the lives of children with complex medical conditions.By attending the 10,000 Lakes Concours d'Elegance, visitors will not only immerse themselves in the captivating world of vintage automobiles but also contribute to a worthy cause. This synergy between automotive passion and community support is a testament to the event's commitment to making a lasting impact.