The Best of France and Italy Car Show, held annually on the first Sunday of November at Woodley Park in Van Nuys, California, is a staple for lovers of European cars. As long-time attendees, we at Heritage Gruppe have always admired the rare, quirky lineup of French and Italian vehicles on display. This year, however, we were fortunate enough to help organize the event, giving us a unique look into what it takes to make this beloved gathering possible.
Early Morning Start with Our Ghia 1500 GT
Our day began in San Gabriel at 6 a.m., armed with coffee for the team of organizers and volunteers. We couldn’t resist bringing our own pride and joy to the show—a 1963 Ghia 1500 GT. This beautiful classic, designed by Ghia and built on a Fiat 1500 chassis, is truly one-of-a-kind; only 38 were made for the U.S. market, and it remains one of the few surviving examples in all-original condition. Attendees were delighted to see the car up close, and we’re excited to announce that this Ghia will soon be featured on Bring a Trailer, where we’ll be representing it for a valued client.
Iconic Guests and Legendary Vehicles
A major highlight of this year’s show was the presence of industry icons like Jay Leno, who brought a classic Hispano Suiza that captivated attendees with its elegance and historical significance. We also had the pleasure of seeing Mike Malamut from the Malamut Museum, who showcased an ultra-rare Citroën Chapron—one of only 27 ever built! Meeting these automotive legends and admiring their incredible vehicles reminded us why this event is so important in the classic car community.
(Photo credit: Leno's Garage)
The Atmosphere: Music, Food, and Rare Finds
One of the unique aspects of the Best of France and Italy Car Show is its focus on community and camaraderie. Attendees could enjoy live music, delicious food, and a variety of vendors selling rare parts and memorabilia. Whether you were searching for that elusive part for a vintage Alfa Romeo or looking to add a piece of French automotive history to your collection, the show had something for everyone. We didn’t get an official attendance count, but looking across the park, it was clear that over a thousand enthusiasts gathered, all united by a passion for these quirky, iconic cars.
Overcoming Challenges and Reflecting on the Event
As organizers, we encountered some unexpected challenges this year, particularly strong morning winds that kicked up dust and even toppled a few tree branches. Yet the team and attendees took it in stride, adjusting as needed. Despite the windy weather, the atmosphere remained vibrant and positive, proving that nothing can dampen the spirit of this community.
Helping with the event was a deeply rewarding experience that gave us a newfound appreciation for the dedication and hard work that goes into making the Best of France and Italy Car Show a reality each year. It’s a show that truly keeps the focus on the cars and the enthusiasts, maintaining a purity and authenticity that’s rare in the automotive event world.
Looking Forward
If you missed this year’s show, we highly recommend putting it on your calendar for next year. It’s an experience that blends history, passion, and community in a way that few other events can match. When you come, be sure to keep an eye out for the Heritage Gruppe team at the registration area—we’ll be there, helping ensure this iconic show continues to bring joy to French and Italian car lovers everywhere.
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