January 2026 Kicks Off with a Packed Automotive Event Calendar Across Europe

January 2026 is already proving to be a remarkably busy month for automotive events in Switzerland and across Europe, long before the traditional season opener in spring. A wide mix of rallies, winter challenges and major shows is set to attract enthusiasts, collectors and industry insiders alike.

The year begins with Planai-Classic from January 8 to 10 in Austria, just one example from a much broader January calendar that includes many more automotive events in Switzerland and around the world. This well-known winter rally leads historic cars through the Alpine region around Schladming and the Dachstein, combining snow-covered mountain roads with demanding regularity tests and a strong focus on driving skill under winter conditions.

On January 17 and 18, Germany hosts OLDTEMA Erfurt, a classic car and parts market that places the emphasis on vehicles, spare parts, restoration materials and automobilia. It is considered an important meeting point for collectors and restorers, especially in central and eastern Germany.

From January 22 to 25, the Black Forest Winter Challenge takes place in southern Germany. The event is known for its winter navigation and regularity stages on snow and ice and is open not only to classic cars but also to selected youngtimers and modern vehicles, adding variety to the starting field.

The end of the month brings two major highlights. From January 30 to February 1, the Bremen Classic Motorshow opens the German show season with high-quality exhibitions, club stands and a strong focus on the classic car market. Almost simultaneously, Switzerland hosts The I.C.E. St. Moritz on January 30 and 31, where historic icons meet selected modern and contemporary cars on the frozen Lake St. Moritz in a unique alpine setting.

Taken together, these events show just how packed the start of the year already is for the automotive scene. January 2026 brings together winter rallies, endurance challenges, major fairs and exclusive events, clearly demonstrating that the automotive event calendar is already in full motion long before spring begins.