Tuesday, August 11, marks the second day of Monterey Car Week festivities. In addition to the second day of the Automobilia Collectors Expo, visitors can also enjoy the Concours for a Cause event in downtown Carmel. In many ways a lower-key version of the old Concours on the Avenue, it is still held along Ocean Avenue like its predecessor used to be. Take note: The avenue is blocked off by around 7 a.m., so you’ll need to get there by 9 if you want any chance of finding parking on the side streets.

If you choose to attend, you’ll find a nice concours-style event with vehicles that run the range from prewar American and European Full Classics right through to the latest modern supercars. An unofficial meetup place for friends heading to Monterey, it makes for a fun morning activity.

The event was started to bring together vintage cars, cultural experiences, and local artists during Monterey Car Week, creating a vibrant, walkable experience for collectors, residents, and visitors alike. It is a lot of fun and well worth attending. It also benefits more than 25 local charities, including the Women Are Limitless Foundation, Carmel Woman’s Club, Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Peace of Mind Dog Rescue, AIM Youth Mental Health, Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula, and the Monterey County Rape Crisis Center. Event applicant fees benefit these worthy organizations and help keep their important work going.

Who said everything during Monterey Car Week was expensive? Like the Concours on the Avenue before it, Concours for a Cause is free and open to the public. You are able (and encouraged) to donate to the benefiting charities on-site, which is a great way to give back to the community for hosting this nice event.