The stage is set for the 53rd annual Barrett-Jackson Car Auction in Scottsdale, with a slew of classic and custom cars that will undoubtedly catch the eye of enthusiasts and collectors alike. As night descends this Friday, the event will launch with a star-studded concert featuring Night Ranger and Foreigner, setting the tone for a week packed with automotive excitement. The bustling event prepares to welcome masses, pushing records with more than 2,000 vehicles up for grabs. With ambitions high, CEO and Chairman Craig Jackson aims to smash the previous highest sales total of $203 million, saying, "We're setting another record trying to figure out where to put them all," according to a statement obtained by AZ Family.
In anticipation of the crowded spectacle that is the Barrett-Jackson affair, the Scottsdale Police Department is ramping up its presence to guarantee a seamless and secure experience. An array of officers will orchestrate traffic alongside enhanced signage to navigate the flurry of cars, notably on Pima Road and the smaller arteries within WestWorld's complex. Scottsdale PD, known for its diligence, is dispatching its DUI Taskforce to mitigate the risks of impaired driving, stationed with a DUI taskforce truck and additional officers to deter and address potential violations. In a statement obtained by AZ Family, Scottsdale Sgt. Allison Sempsis advises attendees to adhere strictly to the clear bag policy—a security measure limiting bags to clear material no larger than 12'' x 6'' x 12''.
The event is not just a draw for potential buyers and car enthusiasts, but also showcases the talent of local artisans in the automotive industry. Shop owners like Dan Hogan of Hogan Built, who grew up attending the auction and fostered a deep love for automobiles, are seizing the opportunity to display their prowess. Hogan brings to the auction three custom Chevy trucks he has remodeled, all while watching his 11-year-old son, Shine, follow in his footsteps—putting a Volkswagen bus go-kart up on the block. Shine, who "learned from his dad," is carving out his own niche in the craft of custom car creation, according to an AZ Family interview.
With an onslaught of people pouring in from around the globe, safety and preparedness are top priority. Sgt. Sempsis emphasized the importance of attendees staying vigilant, locking their vehicles, and avoiding leaving valuables unattended. Sufficient hydration is also advised amid the Arizona heat. The fully prepared police and security ensemble, alongside medical teams, stand on guard ready to assist anyone in need. The Barrett-Jackson event, renowned for its thrill and bustling activity, is prepared to run from January 20 to January 28, concluding what is hoped to be yet another record-breaking week.
