Fans of forgettable and unloved classic cars can take advantage of ‘early bird’ tickets for this year’s Festival of the Unexceptional.
Taking place on Saturday 26 July 2025, the latest Festival of the Unexceptional will celebrate the ordinary cars produced between 1970 and 2000.
Organiser Hagerty aims to build on the record-breaking success of the 2024 Festival of the Unexceptional, which saw more than 2,000 cars and 4,000 enthusiasts attend the event.
For those who want a chance to see their car featured in the central Concours de L’Ordinaire, there are still spaces left to apply.
Award-winning mundanity
The Festival of the Unexceptional organisers hand-pick 50 cars for the Concours de L’Ordinaire. These are displayed in the beautiful courtyard of Grimsthorpe Castle, with an overall winner then chosen.
Last year, an unrestored 1982 Toyota Hilux took the top prize. Previous winners have included a 1998 Renault Clio and a Sunderland-built Nissan Primera.
With the criteria being expanded to include cars from 2000, this means vehicles such as the Chrysler PT Cruiser and Vauxhall Zafira could now enjoy their moment in the spotlight.
Other 2025 show highlights include the return of the Smith and Sniff live stage show, presented by motoring journalists Jonny Smith and Richard Porter, plus other displays and attractions.
Loving the unloved
On sale from 17-30 March 2025, early bird tickets start at £20 – a £5 discount on the general admission price. Children under 15 can visit the show for free.
Those buying an early bird ticket gain entry into a draw to win a VIP experience, with a complimentary overnight stay, Hagerty Driver’s Club (HDC) membership for one year, and a special HDC gift bundle.
“The Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional is one of the most loved events on the UK motoring calendar,” said Mark Roper, managing director of Hagerty International.
“By expanding the qualifying years for 2025, we are including many models that weren’t previously eligible, adding even more excitement for those who appreciate the often-unappreciated cars of the era. Once again, we will be putting on a great show with lots for everyone to do and see on the day, making an event for unexceptional cars, an exceptional family day out.”
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