Introduction:
I recently had the pleasure of attending the 30th anniversary of Bristol Volksfest. This vibrant campervan festival left an indelible mark on my heart. As a devoted fan of the Volkswagen scene, I was eager to immerse myself in the rich culture, music, and festivities that awaited me at this iconic event. Let me share my experience and why Bristol Volksfest is a must-visit festival for all VW enthusiasts.
Driving in to Bristol Volksfest, captured on dashcam
Vibrant Music and Eclectic Entertainment:
Music is the heartbeat of Bristol Volksfest, and this year was no exception. From rock to blues, metal to folk, and everything in between, the festival showcased a diverse lineup of bands and DJs that catered to every taste. I grooved to the beats of Dr Meaker's captivating live and DJ sets while The Nextmen, Complete Madness, and DeluXx delivered unforgettable performances that had the crowd dancing with unbridled joy. The Bunker, a hub for electronic music enthusiasts, kept the party going until the early hours, offering an energetic atmosphere for those seeking a late-night rave experience.
Dr Meaker on the Main Stage
The Saxstead FM Throwdown in The Bunker
Food Galore:
Every festival has an array of mouthwatering culinary delights, and Bristol Volksfest delivers on this front. Local and independent food vendors tantalized our taste buds with diverse flavours from around the world. Whether it was the tantalizing Nepalese cuisine from Nepali Nosh, the delectable Neapolitan pizza from Toots Pizza, or the sizzling BBQ creations from Pimp My Fires, there was something to satisfy every craving. The Pie Hole, Wrappers Delight, and Little Donut Deli also left a lasting impression with their scrumptious offerings, ensuring no one went hungry during the festival.
Engaging Entertainment and Family Fun:
Bristol Volksfest takes pride in offering many entertainment options for all ages. The festival's commitment to family-friendly activities was evident through the numerous attractions available. There was never a dull moment, from awe-inspiring Big Top Mania Circus Shows to thrilling Fusion Extreme bike shows. Children and adults alike indulged in circus skills workshops, mesmerizing graffiti and urban art demos. They even had a chance to showcase their creative side with the 90s fancy dress theme. Korner Park, the dedicated kids' zone, ensured that young festival-goers had an unforgettable experience filled with laughter and joy.
The Kids Zone
Hands down the best costume I saw!
Show & Shine Spectacle:
The Show & Shine event on Sunday was a festival highlight, where VW enthusiasts proudly showcased their lovingly restored and customized campervans. What set this year's Show & Shine apart was the inclusion of a people's choice award, allowing attendees to vote for their favourite vehicles. Seeing vans adorned with numerous green tickets under their windscreen wipers created a sense of friendly competition and excitement. It was a testament to the passion and dedication of the Volkswagen community. I saw a van with many green tickets that I thought would be the winner!
A view of Saturday's display from the sun lounger on the roof of one of our co-founders vans
Campers:
One of the standout features of the Bristol Volksfest crowd is their unique and alternative style. Attendees adorned themselves with vibrant hair colours, expressive tattoos, and a distinct sense of individuality. Seeing the kaleidoscope of colours and artistic self-expression on display was a visual feast. The festival-goers exuded a relaxed and laid-back vibe, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all. This diverse and open-minded community celebrated the freedom of self-expression, adding a layer of vibrancy to the already captivating festival experience.
A Few Considerations:
While Bristol Volksfest provided an incredible experience overall, a few areas could be improved. The availability of toilets fell short of demand, and despite efforts to maintain cleanliness, supplies ran out by Saturday afternoon. Additionally, the lively atmosphere of the campsite meant that noise persisted into the small hours, which may not suit everyone's preferences, although that is the kind of festival I prefer.
However, the festival's commitment to security, with bag checks at the gates and the presence of St. John's Ambulance for health and safety support, was commendable.
The main stage, Saturday afternoon
Conclusion- Bristol Volksfest is a great festival:
Bristol Volksfest is a true gem in the VW festival landscape. The celebration of the festival's 30th anniversary and the homage paid to the iconic VW T4 created an atmosphere of nostalgia and camaraderie among fellow VW enthusiasts. From the wide range of live music and DJs to the delectable food offerings, engaging entertainment, and impressive Show & Shine display, Bristol Volksfest catered to the passions and interests of its attendees. Families had a blast with the multitude of kid-friendly activities, and the vibrant energy throughout the festival was contagious.
As Vandemonium Outfitters, we wholeheartedly recommend Bristol Volksfest to anyone seeking an unforgettable experience immersed in VW culture. Come join the festivities, meet like-minded individuals, and forge lasting memories. Take the chance to be a part of this remarkable event that encapsulates the true spirit of the Volkswagen community. Bristol Volksfest is a celebration that will leave you yearning for more. I'm already eagerly counting down the days until next year's edition.