Mazda Miata – Spotlight Car Show
2025 Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix

The PVGP will Spotlight the Mazda Miata—the world’s best-selling roadster—adding more excitement to this summer’s festivities. Few cars have left an enduring legacy as profound as the Miata. With its sleek design, responsive handling, and commitment to the pure joy of driving, the Miata has become a symbol of innovation since its introduction in 1989.

Reviving the Spirit of Roadsters
The Mazda Miata, affectionately known as the MX-5 in some regions, burst onto the scene in 1989, redefining the roadster segment. At a time when sports cars were becoming increasingly complex and expensive, the Miata brought back the essence of classic roadsters – simplicity, agility, and an open-top driving experience. Its compact yet stylish design captured the attention of enthusiasts worldwide.

Influence on the Automotive World
The impact of the Mazda Miata on the automotive world cannot be overstated. It inspired a new generation of sports cars, and its influence can be seen in various models across different brands. The Miata’s success demonstrated that a sports car could be affordable and fun, challenging the notion that high performance came with a hefty price tag. Its timeless design and spirited driving experience continue to attract enthusiasts, maintaining its status as a classic.

According to ConceptCars.com “The Mazda Miata was patterned after the Lotus Elan of the 1960s. It was conceived in the United States at Mazda’s design headquarters in California and built in Japan. It debuted at the February 1989 Chicago Auto Show, which was an immediate success. It drew thousands of onlookers eager to pay the $13,800 sticker price.

 

Miata – Spotlight Calendar

Miata Spotlight Car Show at Schenley Park – July 19/20 Weekend

The Miata Spotlight Show on the Bob O’Connor Golf Course will be adjacent to the traditional Asian Car Show. Registration is for the entire weekend. Park your Miata on the golf course in the middle of the International Car Show with a weekend view of the track. There are plenty of food vendors and Helltown Brewing nearby.

Your $70 Entry Donation includes:

  • Weekend Parking spot
  • PVGP Race Program and sticker.
  • Two wristbands to enter the event and browse the International Car Show and the Start/Finish Line.
  • Registration opens in February
Evening of Speed VIP & Driver Reception & Parade – Friday, July 18

The traditional Friday night Driver Reception and Parade is moving into Oakland as our racers circle the track, past Phipps and down to the reception at the Frick Fine Arts Building in Schenley Plaza.

The event features a parade and display of the vintage race cars that competed over the weekend. There were displays, meet and greets, and insightful presentations, all set against the backdrop of the historic Frick Fine Arts Building beside Schenley Plaza.

Tickets will be available for the public to attend the private VIP Reception, and we welcome all Miata owners to join the party. Registration for this event opens in February.  Details

Garden Party at Phipps Conservatory – Thursday, July 17

The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix planted the seeds for a fabulous new event in Schenley Park at the Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens alongside the race track. The party showcases a variety of cars and vehicles. Any registered Miata owners will be displayed in a special area in front of Phipps..  This Garden Party features palate-pleasing food stations, wine, Helltown Beer and bar cocktails throughout one of the nation’s oldest and largest Victorian greenhouses. It promises to be an elegant and entertaining evening. Tickets are $295 per person. Details


Tune-Up @ SouthSide Works – Wednesday, July 16

The PVGP Tune-Up was started in 2006 and has become a highlight of our Race Week Car Shows. Participation in this year’s Tune-Up Party is just $50. You get a reserved parking spot within the Automotive Showcase on the streets of the SouthSide Works. You will receive a PVGP Race Program and car decal. Also included are two drink coupons for the driver, redeemable at one of the drink stations. You can also register any guests for $20 each to receive two complimentary drink coupons. Register

Downtown Car Display – Wednesday, July 16

If you work downtown, Wednesday of Race Week is a great day to take a long lunch break. The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix hosts a car display among the skyscrapers at downtown’s most prominent address at PPG Place and the plaza surrounding the fountain.

Any Miata that registers will be parking together. The cost is $25 per car to participate in the Downtown Plaza Display. All vehicles must stay in place until 1:45 pm and depart plazas by 2:00 pm. Register

Waterfront Car Cruise – Tuesday, July 15

Join 600 other auto aficionados for a vast car show at the Waterfront Shopping Center in Historic Homestead. Check out classic and modern vehicles from all makes and years. Enjoy a day of automotive fun and fellowship with food, music, vendors, and giveaways. There will be a special area for Miatas. Bring your friends and family—$ 10 charity donation per car. Details

 

Walnut Street Car Show – Monday, July 14

Nestled on Shadyside’s charming Walnut Street, you will see 135 rare, classic and exotic cars the length of the street. This is a glimpse of what you will see that weekend at the PVGP International Car Show, which will occur a few days later. This popular long-running show features some of the region’s finest and most unique vehicles. Cars are carefully selected for the show by invitation only – so this promises to include show cars rarely seen at other car shows and cruises. The Marque of the Year is assigned 6 display spots – held for the most notable examples. Details

 


Miata Gathering at Pittsburgh International Race Complex – July 12/13 Weekend

Your $50 Entry Donation includes:

  • Single-day gate entry into the Pitt Race facility for two adults (children 12 and under are free).
  • Additional adults are $25 each.
  • Parking spot on the lawn overlooking the final turns of the race track.
  • Entry into Lotus of Pittsburgh Hospitality Tent.
  • The track offers food concessions and Helltown Beer nearby.
  • Details
Blacktie & Tailpipes at Heinz History Center- Friday, July 11

Our Blacktie & Tailpipes Gala opens Grand Prix Race Week in formal style! This is a must for any auto enthusiast who enjoys shiny cars, fine dining and great company. In addition to being one of the city’s best summer parties, it is also a significant fundraiser for our charity partners.

We are excited to announce that the gala is making history in 2025 as we hold the event at the Heinz History Center in the Strip District. The PVGP will have access to the entire facility, and the new chair, Ev Kelly Searle, is planning a fabulous event.  Details

Kick-Off Rallye – Sunday, July 6

If you like cars and country roads, this is a great way to spend a summer Sunday in your Miata. The Rallye is a driving tour and a scavenger hunt rolled into one. This is a casual and fun event with no experience required.

Your $80 entry includes participation in the Rallye for driver and navigator. We’re starting and concluding in Houston, PA, at Dual Devils Garage with a special award for the top-finishing Miata. Includes a deluxe cookout dinner and a great seasonal rotation of 17 Helltown Taproom craft beers. Tour their car exhibits and check out upcoming cars for auction in their showroom. Details