Each spring, Remiremont becomes a mecca for retro motorsport enthusiasts. The Retro Racing Car Show, organised by Association Gérardmer Auto Passion, gathers collectors, teams and drivers at the Palais des Congrès around single-seaters, prototypes and rally cars from past decades.
Show history
The show was founded in 2003 by the Association Gérardmer Auto Passion. The 2025 edition was the 23rd, testament to a rare longevity for a local event of this scale. Over the years it has attracted visitors from across the Grand Est region and beyond, with exhibitors from Germany, Belgium and Switzerland in certain editions. Attendance typically tops several thousand visitors over the weekend.
Practical information
- Location: Palais des Congrès of Remiremont
- Organiser: Association Gérardmer Auto Passion
- Opening hours: Saturday 10am-7pm, Sunday 9am-6pm
- Price: 8 € (free for under-12s)
- 2025 edition (23rd): 12 and 13 April
- 2026 edition: new edition announced for spring
Themes and remarkable pieces
The show covers a broad spectrum of motorsport from the 1960s to the 2000s:
- Formula 1: single-seaters from various eras, sometimes with their original mechanics
- Group B rally: the stars of rallying’s golden age. Lancia Stratos, Peugeot 205 T16, Audi Quattro Sport and Ford RS200 make regular appearances
- Lower-formula single-seaters: F2, F3, Formula Ford and historic circuit cars
- Touring competition cars: BMW M3 E30 Group A, Renault 5 Turbo, Sierra Cosworth, Alfa Romeo GTV6
- Prototypes and endurance cars: some editions showcase LMP or GT3/GT4 cars linked to the year’s theme
In 2025, the theme was the Renault R5 Turbo, with a European premiere gathering six R5 Maxi Turbos to celebrate 40 years since its Tour de Corse victory, in the presence of François Chatriot.
Photography tips
The show is held indoors in the Palais des Congrès halls. Artificial light is the main constraint:
- ISO sensitivity: go to 1600 or 3200 without hesitation, depending on your camera body
- Recommended focal lengths: a 24-70 mm covers most situations. A 50 mm f/1.8 or f/1.4 delivers great images with shallow depth of field
- Angles: crouch to wheel level for wide shots of the whole car. Look for details: cockpit, steering wheel, brake callipers, team logos
- Flash: use sparingly. A diffused or ceiling-bounced flash avoids ugly reflections on metallic bodywork
- Arrive early: before the crowds, you can get close to the cars without backgrounds full of people
Atmosphere
- Close access to the vehicles, rare at large shows
- Drivers and mechanics present to share memories
- Artisans’ village (trunks, race suits, miniatures, scale models)
- Local snack bar, regional Vosges products
Combining with a visit to Remiremont
Remiremont deserves an extra half-day:
- The old town and its arcades: the “loges” of Remiremont form a medieval arcade street unique in the Vosges, ideal for a stroll
- The abbey and municipal museum: history of the canonesses’ abbey, regional art collections
- Quai Carnot along the Moselle: pleasant for a coffee break after the show
- Markets: if your visit coincides with a local market, Vosges producers sell cheeses, charcuterie and honey
Getting there from La Bresse
From La Bresse, Remiremont is about 30 minutes by car via the D417 towards Remiremont. The route passes through pleasant Vosges scenery, particularly beautiful in April when the first flowers appear.
Where to stay
To enjoy the show over two days, La Bresse is about 30 minutes by car from Remiremont. Quieter than a city-centre hotel, with chalet comfort and mountain activities to extend the weekend. See our chalets.
Sources and updates
Official programme and tickets for the current edition via the Association Gérardmer Auto Passion and the local press.
Types of vehicles exhibited
The show covers a broad spectrum of motorsport from the 1960s to the 2000s. Regular highlights include:
- Formula 1 and F2: single-seaters from various eras, sometimes accompanied by their original mechanics
- Group B rally cars: the golden age of rallying. Lancia Stratos, Peugeot 205 T16, Audi Quattro Sport, Ford RS200 are regular showstoppers
- Touring competition cars: BMW M3 E30 Group A, Renault 5 Turbo, Sierra Cosworth, Alfa Romeo GTV6
- Prototypes: endurance cars and GT3/GT4 machines in some editions
The close access to vehicles and the presence of drivers willing to talk about their memories distinguish this event from larger, more anonymous shows.
See also
Frequently asked questions
When is the Retro Racing Car Show held?
A weekend in April each year, at the Palais des Congrès of Remiremont. 2025 edition (23rd): 12 and 13 April. Saturday 10am-7pm, Sunday 9am-6pm. A new edition is planned for spring 2026.
How much is entry?
8 € per person, free for under-12s.
Is parking provided?
Yes, free and secure car park near the Palais des Congrès. Additional zones in the centre.
Can you see the cars up close?
Yes, that is the show's hallmark: close access to the vehicles, direct chats with drivers and mechanics.