There are a great many concours events in the U.S., but the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is in another league entirely. I have told countless people this, but until you actually go to the Pebble Beach Concours, that idea is largely meaningless. Every single car is of such a high level of restoration and rarity that any one of them would be in the running for Best of Show at any other concours in the U.S. If you doubt that statement, you have not been to Pebble. It is one of the most difficult concours events in the world to enter, so showing a car at the Pebble Beach Concours last year was the most significant thing I’ve ever done in the car hobby to date.

This year marks not only the 75th anniversary of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, but also the final event under the leadership of Sandra Button, who will retire after an extraordinary tenure. And that means it is likely to be the best Pebble Beach I have attended in 20-plus years. If there was ever a year to go to this incredible concours, it is this year — and it all happens on Sunday, August 16.

I honestly don’t know what to say that has not been said already about this world-class event. It is literally the measuring stick for every other concours in the world. Yes, it really is that amazing.

Unlike many other concours events, Pebble is first and foremost about the cars. Some events may offer better hospitality or be more affordable, but the sheer number of incredible cars brought together on Sunday at Pebble Beach is unlike anything else on the planet.

If you have never been to Pebble, here’s a tip: Plan on going to “Dawn Patrol.” Contrary to what you may have heard, it’s not just about getting a free commemorative hat — it is an opportunity to witness some of the most expensive vehicles in the world drive onto the field before sunrise, illuminated only by their headlights. It truly is one of the coolest things to watch in the entire collector car hobby. The show field opens to spectators (with credentials) at 5:30 a.m.; you should try to be there by no later than 6. This means getting up at around 4:30, so plan accordingly. Yes, it’s early, but well worth the lost sleep.

The Pebble Beach Concours is on almost every car enthusiast’s bucket list. To me, it deserves the top spot on that list. Do yourself a favor and, if you can, get to Monterey for Car Week. If all you do is go to Pebble, that will be enough.