Ladies and Gentlemen, start your engines. This August marks the 60th anniversary of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the most distinguished and highly acclaimed auto show in the country. More than 175 of the world’s most beautiful, rare, and classic cars from prestigious brands like Rolls-Royce, Jaguar, and Bentley will congregate on the famed 18th Hole Fairway at the Pebble Beach Golf Course, where expert judges will rate them by style, historical accuracy, technical merit, and, above all, elegance.

While the first Concours d’Elegance was actually created as a supplementary event to the 1950 Pebble Beach Road Race, the Concours itself eventually out-shined its partner. Unlike races, which were all about speed, the Concours allowed visitors to get up close to the cars to admire their intricate details and exquisite craftsmanship, proving to be equally as entertaining (if not more) as watching the stunners roar past.

Historical classics aren’t the only vehicles honored these days. The event also has become a platform for the finest car companies to introduce their newest editions and futuristic concept cars. This year, the Ferrari 599 Spider convertible, Porsche 918 Spyder hybrid, and the special edition Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 are expected to make appearances.

“In 50 years, we’ll be able to look at historical vehicles on our show field and trace some of their origins back to the Pebble Beach Concours,” reflects Sandra Button, the event’s chairwoman. “The past and future combine effortlessly at this event because we have one primary purpose: celebrating the best automobiles in the world.”

The event has also become a charitable affair that has raised more than $13 million to support various local, national, and international charities. This year, donations will go to the Pebble Beach Company Foundation, United Way Monterey County, and the Boys & Girls Club of Monterey County, all which are dedicated to the youth of Monterey County.

Tony and Emmy Award-winning actor Edward Herrmann will resume his role as Master of Ceremonies for the 11th year, with other celebrities expected to make appearances. The 2010 Concours d’Elegance is without a doubt one of the most anticipated events of the year for car enthusiasts the world over.

After 60 years, the Concours has evolved into a week-long sensation. With so many events scheduled, it’s almost impossible to know how to tackle scheduling an itinerary. Here, we highlight the must-see attractions of Pebble Beach Auto Week that will be sure to drive auto enthusiasts wild.