Grand Meeting Rittergut Birkhof
From 31 July to 2 August 2026, the historic Rittergut Birkhof near Korschenbroich once again became the meeting place for lovers of classic cars, motorsport and automotive culture. The Grand Meeting – part of the Classic Days – transformed the elegant estate and its extensive parkland into a spectacular celebration of motoring history, lifestyle and nostalgia.
Now in its second year at Rittergut Birkhof, the event has quickly established itself in its new home. The setting could hardly be more appropriate: mature trees, avenues, lawns, hedges and the historic Herrenhaus provided a picturesque backdrop for thousands of extraordinary automobiles. Rather than feeling like a conventional motor show, the Grand Meeting deliberately combines classic motoring with the atmosphere of a grand summer garden party.
One of the event’s greatest attractions was the sheer variety of vehicles on display. Visitors could admire everything from pre-war racing cars and legendary sports cars to post-war classics, American automobiles and historic camping vehicles. Themed areas such as Nostalgic Journeys, Lovely Heroes, Made in Germany and Stars & Stripes offered different perspectives on automotive history and the lifestyles that surrounded these cars.
The Grand Meeting was also about movement rather than simply static displays. On the approximately 2.6-kilometre demonstration circuit, historic racing and sports cars were brought to life, allowing spectators to experience the sound, speed and character of machines that have shaped motorsport history. The 2026 programme also featured a remarkable gathering of racing personalities, adding a human dimension to the stories behind the cars.
Away from the circuit, the atmosphere was relaxed and distinctly social. More than 100 classic-car clubs took part in the Classic Meeting, creating an enormous gathering of enthusiasts and providing visitors with the opportunity to exchange stories, admire carefully preserved vehicles and share their passion for motoring. Food, fashion, shopping and period-inspired presentation added to the festival character.
Perhaps the greatest achievement of the 2026 Grand Meeting was the way it brought different generations together. For some visitors, the event was a nostalgic journey into a world they remember; for others, it was an introduction to automotive history. At Rittergut Birkhof, these different perspectives came together naturally, surrounded by the beauty of the historic estate.
The first weekend of August once again proved that the Grand Meeting is much more than an exhibition of old cars. It is a celebration of design, engineering, history and the simple pleasure of being around extraordinary automobiles. With its successful second edition at Rittergut Birkhof, the event has firmly established the estate as a new home for one of Germany’s most distinctive automotive festivals.
Picture Gallery Grand Meeting Rittergut Birkhof
Pictures ©Tim Havermans /Carlos Ghys
