Hey, isn’t the Denver Auto Show always held in April? In 2021, everything changed. This year’s auto show (aka “Denver’s largest new-car showroom”) opened Sept. 15 at its new outdoor digs at Elitch Gardens. And the 12th annual preview celebration? Upgraded to gala status with its inaugural Colorado Automotive Hall of Fame dinner. CADA (Colorado Automobile Dealers Association) members are definitely driven.

On Sept. 14, CADA opened its event tent to 700 industry professionals, revved and ready to honor its own, preview the 2021 Denver Auto Show, catch up with colleagues and maybe even (why not?) check out the competition. Epicurean Catering staff roamed the reception with passed hors d’oeuvres, then set tables for the plated dinner that followed.

The Maul family, ready for their closeup

Guests were able to peruse the photos and bios of the Colorado Automotive Hall of Fame inductees on display outside the tent, as well as pose for photos at the step-and-repeat area.

Ed Greene and Claudia Garofalo, of 9News, presided over the dinner program that honored all 50 Colorado Automotive Hall of Fame inductees, with newest additions Fletcher Flower, 2020, and Christina Dawkins, 2021. The recognition of all the honorees highlighted the first-ever HOF celebration dinner, created to showcase the inductees’ automotive vision, innovation and community service. CADA President/CEO Tim Jackson and David Spencer, of presenting sponsor Ally Bank, spoke briefly; and CADA Board Chair Steve Zeder and 2021 Hall of Fame Chair Anthony Brownlee were on stage to assist with the awards presentations. After dinner, guests made the very-short walk to the preview party and the opportunity to check out those gorgeous Auto Show vehicles.

HOF awardee Bob Markley greets a friend at the display.

Since 1902, the Denver Auto Show has always been a must-attend event. This year from Sept. 15-19, 500 of the latest car, truck and SUV vehicle rides are displayed alongside Elitch’s own thrill rides, offering a unique, entertaining atmosphere. In addition to show tickets, weekend-only combo tickets provide access to both the park and the auto show, ensuring some fun-filled experiences for all ages. To learn more, please visit: https://denverautoshow.com/. For information about the Colorado Automotive Hall of Fame: https://www.coloautohalloffame.com/. For preview gala information: https://www.previewgala.com/.

Blacktie Colorado
Blacktie Colorado