The Event Coverage section highlights vintage Volkswagen shows, cruises, campouts, and community gatherings from across the VW scene. Each report captures the cars, the people, and the atmosphere that make these events such an important part of air-cooled culture. Explore recent coverage below and revisit some of the most memorable VW events of the season.

EMPI 70th Anniversary Open House - Article and Photos by Sonny

The EMPI 70th Anniversary Open House delivered a full day of energy, nostalgia, and unmistakable air-cooled sound. From the moment the gates opened, the event felt like a true milestone for the VW community, with a steady stream of cars rolling in and spectators gathering early to take it all in.

Enthusiasts, families, and longtime EMPI supporters filled the grounds throughout the day. The mix of generations created a lively atmosphere, with seasoned owners sharing stories while younger fans soaked in the sights and sounds of classic Volkswagens up close.

The event stood out as genuinely family friendly, something not every automotive gathering pulls off. Kids moved between rows of Beetles, Buses, and Ghias with the same excitement as the adults who grew up around them, pointing out colors, shapes, and details that caught their eye.

Parents used the opportunity to pass along their own memories and knowledge, turning the show into a hands-on history lesson. It was a reminder that the air-cooled hobby continues because each generation introduces the next to these cars and the culture around them.

The show field was packed with vintage Volkswagens, each one offering something unique. Restored examples sat beside well-preserved originals, and even the patina cars drew plenty of attention for their character and authenticity.

Walking the rows felt like stepping through a living timeline of VW history. Almost every car stood out in its own way, whether through craftsmanship, creativity, or the personal touches that make each build special.

Many attendees pointed to the variety of classic Volkswagens as a highlight. From early Beetles to late-model Super Beetles, from slammed Type 3s to clean Buses, the diversity kept the show field interesting from every angle.

The on-site Dyno Jet added a steady soundtrack of engines being pushed to their limits. Crowds gathered each time a car rolled onto the rollers, eager to see what kind of numbers the air-cooled engines would put down.

The EMPI Engine Battle World Cup served as the signature attraction. Instead of a traditional awards ceremony with multiple classes, the focus was on this high-energy engine competition that celebrated builders and tuners.

It was a fitting centerpiece for the anniversary, highlighting the innovation and craftsmanship that define EMPI’s identity. The competition brought out the technical side of the hobby and gave spectators a close look at what makes these engines special.

Arizona was strongly represented among the visiting cars, with several clubs and owners making the trip. Their presence added to the sense that this was more than a local gathering — it was a regional celebration of air-cooled culture.

Even without knowing the farthest distance traveled, the mix of plates and club banners showed how far EMPI’s influence reaches. The turnout reflected a dedicated and mobile community that shows up for major events like this one.

In the end, the EMPI 70th Anniversary Open House delivered exactly what air-cooled fans hoped for. It was a great event for enthusiasts, especially Volkswagen owners who appreciate both heritage and hands-on spirit.

With strong attendance and the success of the Engine Battle World Cup, organizers confirmed the event will return next year. For many, the countdown has already begun.

The VolksWorld Show’s move to its new home proved to be the right decision the moment the gates opened on March 22, 2026. What once felt like a risky shift now looks like the beginning of a stronger chapter for one of the UK’s most loved air cooled gatherings. The new venue brought fresh energy, a bigger footprint and a sense that the show has found a place where it can grow.

From the start, the atmosphere felt different. This was not just another date on the calendar. It was a full celebration of everything that makes the air cooled VW scene so enduring. Attendance was higher than ever, but it was the mood on the grounds that stood out. The show felt alive, with visitors and owners mixing freely and the cars becoming part of the flow rather than static displays behind ropes.

The outdoor areas set the tone early. Rows of Type 2s greeted visitors at the entrance, arranged by passionate club members who know how to make an impact. That sense of immersion continued throughout the day. Owners drove their cars directly into the heart of the event, creating a feeling of inclusivity that is often missing at larger shows. Beetles, Buses, Ghias and Type 3s filled the grounds, each one with its own story and personality.

Inside the Queen’s Jubilee Hall, long time VolksWorld Show fans found a familiar sight. This was the home of the top tier builds, presented in a traditional format that highlighted craftsmanship and detail. The hall was busy from morning to late afternoon, with visitors circling cars, taking photos and talking with owners. Traders around the edges added to the buzz with rare parts and quality merchandise that kept the hall active all day.

The Robins Building delivered a different kind of energy. It was packed with trade stands and display cars from Back to 89, The Vintage Guys and Aircooled Youth. More than fifty vehicles filled the space, each one bringing something unique. Back to 89 marked its twenty fifth anniversary with a standout collection of historic show cars. Aircooled Youth brought fresh enthusiasm and new faces, while The Vintage Guys delivered a beautiful lineup of regularly driven stock Split and Oval Beetles.

Outdoors, the scale of the show became even more impressive. Hundreds of air cooled Volkswagens stretched across the site in neat, flowing rows. The layout felt natural and welcoming, with owners chatting, comparing notes and sharing stories. It captured the spirit of the old UK VW events where the people mattered as much as the cars. Sunshine helped, but even without it, the outdoor displays would have been a highlight.

The day wrapped up with prizegiving, and the competition was incredibly close. After hours of judging, the Best of Show award went to Mark Paine for his 1950 Split Window Beetle, built in less than two months by Andy Finch and the team at Spikes Vintage Restorations. The level of quality across the field made the judges work hard, and every Concours Collection owner deserved recognition. With strong attendance, a successful new layout and a clear sense of momentum, the VolksWorld Show proved that 2026 was something special. Plans are already underway for March 21, 2027, and if this year is any indication, the next one will be even better.