WELCOME RECEPTION

Thursday

09/24/2026

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Hangar 30 --- telluride airport, telluride colorado

Welcome Reception

The Ultimate Launchpad: The 2026 Welcome Reception

Thursday, September 24 | Hangar 30, Telluride Regional Airport

Fuel, Freedom, and Heritage: Kick Off the Festival Weekend in Epic American Style!

Are you ready to kick off the ultimate luxury automotive weekend against the most breathtaking mountain backdrop in North America? The Telluride Autumn Classic officially roars to life on Thursday night inside the massive Hangar 30—and this year, we are throwing down an unforgettable tribute to the American spirit.

As the entire country unites to celebrate the monumental America 250 milestone, our Welcome Reception is going all-in on an all-American theme of speed, sacrifice, and pure mechanical ingenuity. This isn’t just an opening party; it is a full-throttle celebration of American grit.

🇺🇸 A Star-Spangled Opening Ceremony

Feel the goosebumps under the hangar lights. To officially open the festival, we are bringing in a premier national anthem vocalist—famed for electrifying crowds at major sporting events—to deliver a powerful live performance of the Star-Spangled Banner.

Surrounded by a patriotic tribute to the United States Armed Forces, we are proud to host Green Beret Racing as they head up the “Battle of the Branches.” Come support our nation’s military veterans, meet the drivers, and witness some friendly, high-stakes rivalry between the branches of our military.

🏎️ Meet Racing Icons & Industry Innovators

The hangar will be packed with horsepower and automotive royalty. This evening features the official presentation of the prestigious “Legends of Motorsports” Award to legendary Shelby American team driver Allen Grant.

Mingle alongside Shelby legends, world-class automotive designers, and premier vendors. Get an up-close, exclusive look at high-performance machinery, hand-crafted elite restorations, and luxury overland vehicles before the public displays open this weekend.

🍖 Gourmet BBQ Buffet & Premium Tastings

No great American celebration is complete without incredible food and drink. Indulge in a premium, mouth-watering gourmet BBQ buffet packed with high-end comfort food.

Thirsty? The Telluride Rotary Club is proudly hosting a full cash bar all night long, featuring exclusive, premium spirit tastings to keep your glass full while you swap stories with fellow collectors and enthusiasts.

🎟️ Lock In Your Tickets Before They Sell Out!

The Welcome Reception is the exclusive destination to pick up your 3-Day Platinum passes, grab official event merchandise before it hits the general public, and set the tone for an legendary weekend.

Whether you are a lifelong gearhead, a military supporter, or someone who loves world-class food and culture, this is the party people will be talking about all year. Space inside Hangar 30 is strictly limited, and tickets are moving fast.

👉 Don’t wait until the gates open—secure your tickets now and stand with us as we celebrate America 250 at 9,000 feet!

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