In a world where innovation meets tradition, the 2026 edition of Historic Auto in Nantes stands as a vibrant tribute to the history of the automobile, with a particular focus on BMW, which is celebrating its 110th anniversary. The event promises to bring together enthusiasts, collectors, and curious onlookers around iconic vehicles and a friendly atmosphere worthy of the greatest shows.
Historic Auto: The Meeting Place for Enthusiasts
In the landscape of automotive events in France, Historic Auto has become an essential reference. Taking place at the Parc des Expositions de la Beaujoire in Nantes from February 27 to March 1, 2026, this fifth edition promises to be rich in discoveries. More than 300 exhibitors and nearly 1,000 vehicles will occupy 27,000 m², offering visitors a unique opportunity to mingle with rare models and exchange ideas with enthusiasts.
On the agenda, a tour of mechanical history: characterful cars, historic motorcycles, clubs, and specialized dealers come together to create a vibrant atmosphere. The organizers have even decided to integrate motorcycles into this automotive universe for the first time, thus broadening the horizons of the show and attracting a diversity of visitors.
BMW: A Celebration of 110 Years of Excellence
This 2026 edition will be marked by a special tribute to BMW, the German brand celebrating its 110th anniversary. Several thematic exhibitions will highlight iconic models and rare collectible pieces. The clubs present, true figureheads of the event, will showcase historical series and competition models that will delight both enthusiasts and newcomers.
Imagine for a moment strolling through the aisles of the show, surrounded by these works of art on wheels. One could almost hear the roar of engines and feel the palpable passion in the air. Each model tells a story, and BMW, with its rich heritage, offers a fascinating chapter that draws all eyes.
A Friendly Experience for Everyone
But Historic Auto is not just about vintage cars and motorcycles. It is also a friendly experience where conferences, hands-on workshops, and dining areas complement the program. A “trading village” dedicated to parts, miniatures, and technical documents will animate the venue, creating a rich and dynamic exchange space.
Whether one is a fervent admirer of mechanics or simply curious, everyone will find their place. Families, vintage design enthusiasts, and casual strollers will be captivated by the fascinating stories that each vehicle has to tell. It’s a bit like a living museum where each visitor becomes an actor in their own experience.
Practical Information to Not Miss Anything
Dates: Friday, February 27 to Sunday, March 1, 2026Hours: Friday, February 27: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM Saturday, February 28: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday, March 1: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (ticket counters closing 30 minutes before) Location: Parc des Expositions de la Beaujoire, 2B Rue des Pays de la Loire, 44300 Nantes Program: exhibition of collectible vehicles, club spaces, trading village, workshops, and conferences (detailed program on the official site). Prices: Full price: €14 (1 day) / €26 (2 days) / €38 (3 days) Reduced price: €12 (1 day) / €22 (2 days) / €32 (3 days)
A Promising Future for Historic Auto
As the 2026 edition looms on the horizon, one can already imagine the positive outcomes for the show. With an event so rich in history and diversity, we can expect Historic Auto to continue attracting an ever-wider audience. In the medium term, this desire to broaden horizons could well position the show as a key player in the European automotive landscape.
By celebrating iconic brands like BMW, Historic Auto shows that it is not just about nostalgia, but also about the future. The passion for automobiles, whether vintage or modern, remains a powerful engine for bringing generations together around a shared passion.
