Barrett-Jackson, The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions, treated guests to a surprise performance by GRAMMY-award winning Zac Brown Band during its annual gala, which was held at WestWorld of Scottsdale on Jan. 25, 2016.
This year’s highly anticipated event was sponsored by Acura and celebrated the millions of dollars raised for charity by the car collecting community. The annual gala was Scottsdale’s most sought-after event ticket and kicked off Barrett-Jackson’s auction week where over 1,500 vehicles will cross the block at WestWorld of Scottsdale.
“The first Barrett-Jackson auction 45 years ago was a creative way to connect the collector car community and benefit an important charity,” said Craig Jackson, chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson. “Fast forward to today, and Barrett-Jackson has evolved into a global powerhouse that is the world’s greatest collector car auction. During those decades, we’ve raised millions of dollars for important causes. While the scale of our events may continue to grow, the passion for this hobby and helping charities deepens with every life that we touch.”
Barrett-Jackson kept the entertainment for the annual gala under a veil of secrecy. Working with this year’s gala sponsor Acura, Barrett-Jackson secured the iconic Zac Brown Band to headline this year’s gala. The band recently wrapped up their largest North American Stadium Tour to date and was greeted by a surprised and elated audience on Monday night when they took center stage to rock the room.
Barrett-Jackson has raised nearly $85 million for charity over the past 45 years, and will continue this generous tradition with the auction of one of the most anticipated supercars in the world, the 2017 Acura NSX VIN #001 (Lot #3007). One hundred percent of the hammer price of the Acura NSX will benefit the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation and Camp Southern Ground, the passion project of Grammy Award-winning artist Zac Brown.
Other important charity vehicles crossing the block in Scottsdale include the Chevrolet COPO Camaro VIN #001 (Lot #3005), a custom 2016 Ford Focus RS (Lot #3009), Jay Leno’s one-of-one F-150 (Lot #3006) and others totaling 11 charity consignments.
“The Barrett-Jackson Opening Night Gala has become the hottest ticket in Scottsdale during January,” said Carolyn Jackson who headed up the event planning committee. “Since this was our 45th anniversary event, it was important to elevate the experience in every way. From the entertainment to the cuisine, our team worked diligently to create the ultimate Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Week kick-off event for the thousands of people who attended the gala.”
To preview vehicles consigned for the 2016 Barrett-Jackson Auction in Scottsdale, click here.
