British motorcars roll into Bristol this weekend

Hundreds of exotic cars are expected at Colt State Park festival June 10-11. Many arriving Thursday

By Patrick Luce
Posted 5/31/17

Just about a month before Bristol celebrates America’s break from England, the town will celebrate the motherland when hundreds of exotic British cars roll into town.

More than 300 classic …

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British motorcars roll into Bristol this weekend

Hundreds of exotic cars are expected at Colt State Park festival June 10-11. Many arriving Thursday

Posted

Just about a month before Bristol celebrates America’s break from England, the town will celebrate the motherland when hundreds of exotic British cars roll into town.

More than 300 classic cars are expected at the third annual British Motorcar Festival at Colt State Park June 9-11. From Aston Martins, to Bentleys, Rolls Royces, Jaguars and more, most of the classic British car makers will be represented. There will also be some of the rarest cars in the world, including a Land Rover SUV with a center-drive system, according to organizer Michael Gaetano.

And the event is more than just a car show. Organizers bill it as “a rather exceptional British lifestyle event.” Attendees are encouraged to dress in their fanciest British attire and most elaborate hats. Awards will be handed out to those decked out in the best British regalia, and guests will have to chance to meet “the queen.”

The main event — the Concours d’Elegance — is scheduled for Saturday at 2:30 p.m., when judges declare their winners, including the best in show. On Sunday, the winners will show off their rides during a rolling review with commentary at 11 a.m., followed by a tailgate competition at 1 p.m., and a “Competition of Colors” at 2 p.m. Gates open on both days at 9 a.m., after which time visitors can mill around the field inspecting the vehicles and meeting the car owners.

Tickets, which can be purchased at the gate, good for both Saturday and Sunday cost $15 and are available at the gate. Tickets for Sunday only are $10. Children under 12 are free. There is also a $5 parking fee, which will be donated to local charities. The event goes on rain or shine.

Bristolians are likely to see an influx of British cars a couple days before the show. On Thursday, June 8, as many as 100 cars will parade for 100 miles all around the East Bay and Southeastern Massachusetts. Another car parade is set for Friday, June 9 at 5:45 p.m., during which the vehicles will travel from Colt State Park to Independence Park on Thames Street, where organizers will stage a free street party 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit britishmotorcarfestival.com.

British Motorcar Festival

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