Experience the thrill of vintage autos and motorcycles revving through the heart of historic Coatesville, giving spectators a flashback to what the early days of American motorsports looked like. The family-fun motor sport event takes place on Saturday, September 17, with related events leading up to the Grand Prix on Thursday and Friday, September 15 and 16. Drivers and owners of vintage racing cars and motorcycles dating from 1900 to 1977 will compete individually over a challenging 2.2-mile road course that winds through the streets of Coatesville, complete with old-style straw bales. Best in Show trophies will be awarded to the top car and motorcycle competitors who best exemplify sportsmanship, skill and safety on the course.
Saturday general admission is FREE, and opening ceremonies begin at 8:00 a.m. The start/finish line is at 3rd Avenue and Lincoln Highway, with excellent visibility along the entire course. Vintage cars and motorcycles start navigating the course at 9:00 a.m. and continue through 3:30 p.m., followed by the awards ceremony.
Fun for the whole family, the action-packed atmosphere includes vendors, games, kidz zone, soap box racing and music, with the Jeff D’Ambrosio Beer Garden featuring Deer Creek Malthouse and food trucks located in the “infield” just steps away from the start/finish line.
Tickets are still available for the week’s premier social event, the PRIXview Party on Thursday, September 15 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. This lively evening under the stars is a chance to mix and mingle with car and motorcycle enthusiasts, drivers and event sponsors, surrounded by an exclusive display of select vintage vehicles. It’s all hosted by CIVGP committee member Crosby Wood and his wife Nancy at their historic Brooklawn home and cohosted by the Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce and CIVGP committee members. Tickets are $65 each and include cocktails, light fare and music. PRIXview tickets are available at https://coatesvillegrandprix.com/prixview-party.
On September 16, the eve of the Grand Prix, the Friday Evening Cruise-in features vintage cars, trucks and special interest vehicles. Open to all car enthusiasts, this special evening allows non-competitors to cruise through the city and preview the course. Bring your pre-1977 hot rods, classic and restored cars! No entry fee or registration is required; however, all vehicles must be licensed. Parking for Cruise-in participants will be available along Lincoln Highway between 1st and 4th Streets where spectators can get an up-close look.
This year’s lead sponsors include Jeff D’Ambrosio Auto Group, The Coatesville Youth Initiative (made possible by Jennifer and Bob McNeil) and J& J Commercial Electric. Additional top sponsors are Brian Hoskins Ford, Buckley Brion McGuire & Morris LLP, Coatesville Express Carwash, Howell Engineering and Surveying, and JGM USA.
A portion of proceeds from sponsorships, PRIXview Party tickets, event parking and souvenir sales benefits the Coatesville Parks and Recreation initiatives. For event details, PRIXview Party ticket sales, and volunteer opportunities, visit coatesvillegrandprix.com or email info@coatesvillegrandprix.com.