Guest post : The top US car shows

The US is a country that likes its cars. It's perhaps not surprising that there are lots of events throughout the US showcasing some of the best cars around.
This article will look at some of the car shows that take place that really should be a must-see for all car enthusiasts.
Note that although many of these have already taken place for 2013, it's worth noting that they're all annual events.

Hot August Nights Auction
When: August 8-10
Where: Reno, Tahoe
The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company hosts some of the most comprehensive classic car auctions in the world. Some of the world’s most valuable cars are up for auction this summer in Reno. The car list this year features some real automotive gems, cars with a visible heritage and others brimming with attitude.
This year, alongside the auction, Reno will also host the Barrett-Jackson Cup. Cash prizes are awarded to the best cars presented during the downtown Show-n-Shine, adding an atmosphere of competition and bringing the show to life even more.

Concours d’Elegance of America at St. Johns
When: July 28
Where: Plymouth, Michigan
Previously held at Oakland University’s Meadow Brook Hall, this year, America’s Concour’s d’Elegance will be held at St. Johns.
Showcasing over 300 cars, the Concours d’Elegance of America is a car show seeking to emulate the sophistication and style of some of the efforts of early French car manufacturers. As such, it’s a very classy affair, combining automobiles and fashion. From real antiques heralding the pioneering age of automotive transportation, to pre-war and post-war treasures right through to modern classics, the American Concours is littered with the finest cars.
At its heart, Concours is an exhibition of prestigious collectors' cars and classy vehicles. Alongside the unique selection of featured cars, there is also an automotive art exhibition, a vintage car auction, Mode du Concours and other social events.

Pebbles Beach Concours d’Elegance
When: August 18
Where: Monterey County, California
A further step up from the Concours d’Elegance of America is the Pebble Beach Concours. It’s a similar affair in its refined presentation of cars and its continual efforts to strive for style, yet it is somewhat more prestigious. At Pebble Beach you are likely to find cars valued in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, and even some in the millions. The Concours is incredibly competitive, and cars are judged for authenticity, function, history and style.
Founded in the 1950s, the Concours has been going for quite some time and is a thoroughly established event, from post-war Ferraris to historic Bentleys. If you’re a real avid classic car collector this event is definitely worth a visit.

State Fair of Texas Auto Show
When: September 27-October 20
Where: Dallas, Texas
Since 1904, Texas has hosted an auto show, unveiling new vehicles as they came out. However, these days although the show has developed and evolved, it is still a place for exclusive international launches of new models, as well as home to many classic cars. As it has developed over the years it has also grown. Since the late 80s, the show has grown from 84,000 sq. ft. to over 300,000 sq. ft. making it a massive event to be a part of.
Unlike some other car shows, the Texas Auto Show lasts for almost a month, allowing you to really make the most of it without worrying about fitting everything in within a couple of days.
So for countless classics alongside unveilings of some of the latest production models, head to the Texas State Auto Show.

Woodward Dream Cruise
When: August 18
Where: Detroit
What started as a small fundraiser for a soccer field in Michigan has now developed into a nationally recognised event. In 1995, a small group of volunteers were hoping to relive the 50s and 60s by driving a host of classic cars down Woodward Avenue; America’s first highway. Over 250,000 people participated and the event has been brilliantly attended ever since.
It is the largest single day classic car event in the world, annually attracting over 1.5 million people and over 400,000 classic cars. Up and down Woodward Avenue you will see thousands upon thousands of classic cars, and the event really is a nostalgic throwback to the days of the 50s.
Although it is technically a single day event, there is a visible lead-up to the occasion, and the celebrations start early in the summer as classic cars are brought out onto the streets.

Conclusion There are various car events up and down the US, but some of the ones listed here really are world-class shows and for car enthusiasts simply shouldn’t be missed.

Author bio: The top US shows as agreed by the team at Dusty Cars, classic car restorers who specialise in Porsche and Cadillac restoration.