A memorable weekend for car and Ku'damm fans
On 28 and 29 May 2011, the two great anniversaries will be celebrated in a dazzling array of beauty and ever-fascinating technology from 125 years of bodywork and unique Berlin flair.
In May 1886, when construction work on the Kurfürstendamm was completed, the first steam-powered tram line began running from the Berlin Zoo to Grunewald. Since then, this year has been regarded as the inauguration of the splendid boulevard. This is where we begin with the history of the famous main thoroughfare, which is around four kilometres long.
What began as the invention of the wheel in some 4000 years B.C. led to Carl Benz’s patenting of the motor car in 1886. The automobile – now an indispensable part of contemporary life – was born.
125 Years of Automobiles meets 125 Years of the Kurfürstendamm connects these two anniversaries in the form of an exclusive classic car rally at Germany’s most beautiful and glamorous boulevard. The highlight of the event will be a presentation of the original patented Mercedes dating from 1886.
Up to 1,250 vintage cars from the 1930s to the 1970s can be admired at an exhibition space of over two kilometres stretching from Breitscheidplatz to Olivaer Platz.
Nine car-manufacturing nations will present vehicles that are typical of their countries, as well as historic and current fashion and culinary delights. In addition to a VIP parade and an entertainment programme along the event route, the most magnificent vehicles will be awarded prizes by an expert jury at the Concours d’Elegance at Breitscheidplatz.
An evening show of cars will delight evening visitors to the Ku’damm that Saturday night.
There will also be a fun-packed entertainment programme for the youngest fans of classic cars, giving parents a chance to admire the historic beauties in a relaxed atmosphere and enjoy the appealing entertainment programme.