Ultimate Guide to [32] Van Life Festivals in 2024: Discover Camper Culture (2024)

Imagine waking up to the festival vibe right at your doorstep, with a neighbourhood of like-minded folks, and epic van conversioninspo…

That’s the beauty of van life festivals in the UK.If you bring your own van it’s a super-luxe escape from traditional camping, but even if you camp in a tent, or come just on a day ticket, you can experience camper culture firsthand.

Van life festivals and meet-ups are a diverse mix, each is something a bit different, and as the van life movement grows so does the festival experience. In 2024 we can look forward to a packedfestival scene with niche festivals like Vanlife Eats and Oktoberfest, through to the big hitters like VanLove Festival and Camper Calling. And that’s not to mention a whole season of hotly anticipated VW festivals!

UPDATE: Camp Quirky 2024 – the heavyweights of campervan festivals and events – were due to host their annual summer van life festival on 18th, 19th and 20th May but they’ve cancelled and are on pause for this year, so we’re intrigued to see who steals their crown!

Skip straight to 2024 UK van life festivals in:

In this guide, we’ll unveil the 33 must-attend UK van life events of 2024 taking place across the UK. You can expect a line-up of:

• Live music
• Street food
• Vanlife workshops and talks about life on the road
• Wellness experiences – such as yoga – and more
• Festival traders
• Competitions and get-togethers for van enthusiasts
• Campervan showcases

33 Van Life Festivals in 2024

Fasten your seatbelt as we explore the best UKvan life festivals, inviting you to roam in style through this eclectic, nomadic extravaganza, including:

Map of UK Van Life Festivals in 2024

May = Purple | June = Red | July = Yellow | August = Green | September = Blue | October = Orange

Campervan Campout, South of England Showground, Haywards Heath – Friday 3rd / Saturday 4th / Sunday 5th May 2024

Back for its second year this spring, the family-friendly Campervan Campout presents an exciting line-up featuring live music, including a ’90s Hangover DJ set by Chris Moyles.

Explore the vibrant shopping village, indulge in artisan food and drink at the hall, go foraging, and find serenity in the Wellness Sanctuary with yoga sessions, breath workshops, and mental health talks. Don’t miss The Campout Hub, street food delights, a gin festival, and the ever-popular silent disco.

WOOF WOOF! Campervan Campout is a dog-friendly vanlife gathering!

Day tickets are available from £10.Camp the weekend from £150 (£210 with EHU).

Book tickets for Campervan Cookout 2024

VanWest, Taunton Racecourse, Somerset – Friday 10th / Saturday 11th / Sunday 12th May2024

In May 2024, VanWest celebrates its 17th year as the ultimate Volkswagen Holiday, featuring live music and a weekend full of activities to entertain the entire family. Camping kicks off on Friday and concludes on Sunday, with the option to extend your stay by booking additional nights for Thursday and Sunday. Please note that due to the site’s nature, electric hookups are not available.

WOOF WOOF! VanWest is one of many dog friendlyfestivals and gatherings!

Day tickets are available from £16.25 (discounts available for club members). Camp the weekend from £58.25 (no EHU available, discounts available for club members).

Book tickets for VanWest 2024

VW Breakout, Santa Pod Raceway, Wellingborough – Friday 17th / Saturday 18th / Sunday 19th May 2024

VW Breakout is a laid-back three-day VW Festival weekend, capturing the essence of the best of van life meet-ups! Experience thrilling quarter-mile track action with Doorslammers Drag Racing and Jet Cars, complemented by live music, dynamic Live Action Arena featuring Monster Trucks, Show & Shine, a variety of traders, a funfair, kids’ entertainment, and a bar – ensuring you can savour this family festival!

Weekend admission starts from £15.00 for 5-15yrs, up to £25.20 for adults (single day). Weekend prices are great value at all £63.00 for adults. Electric hook-up is competitive at £105 for the weekend.

WOOF WOOF! No animals, other than assistance dogs, can attend this van life gathering.

Book tickets for VW Breakout 2024

The Southern Motorhome and Campervan Show, Newbury Showground – Friday 17th / Saturday 18th / Sunday 19th May 2024

How does four nights of live 60s entertainment sound? Rock’n’roll baby! Book a camping pitch at The Southern Motorhome and Campervan show and the full line-up is included.

Going beyond the music, you’ll find a variety of new and used motorhomes and campervans for sale from local and national dealers. Additionally, you can stock up on all the camping accessories you need for your next adventure van.

WOOF WOOF! The Southern Motorhome and Campervan Showis one of many dog friendlyfestivals. Dogs must be kept on a lead.

General camping is available from £77, or £137 with EHU. Please note that additional fees apply for headliner shows. Adult day tickets are available from £7 and kids (under 16) get in free.

Book tickets for The Southern Motorhome and Campervan Show 2024

Vanlife Festival 2024, The West Mid Showground, Shrewsbury – Friday 31st May, Saturday 1st June / Sunday 2nd June 2024

Vanlife Festival is a major festival in the van life calendar, despite being a relative newcomer to the scene. The family-friendly event boasts diverse activities such as workshops, travel talks, appearances by top YouTubers, live music, a night market, delectable street food, bars, fire-pits, bespoke traders, inspirational display vehicles, kids’ entertainment, a funfair, dog-friendly amenities, bushcraft, and outdoor activities.

One one the best new events in the UK, this is a platform for showcasing incredible vans, sharing adventures, connecting with like-minded campervan owners, and passing on valuable knowledge. All makes and models of campervan are welcome – from the smallest of micro campers to coaches, horseboxes, coach-built, motorhomes, tents, adventure trucks, self-build campers, day vans, custom vans, and everything in between!

WOOF WOOF! This festival is dog-friendly (as long as they are kept on a lead).

Adult event passes are available from £59, with camping from an additional £39.00 (up to 7.5 metre van), Children’s prices are available, as are day tickets (£20 per adult) and different zones (solo and family) are available.

Buy tickets for Vanlife Festival 2024

Alive and V-Dubbin, Haughley Park, Suffolk – Thursday 6th / Friday 7th / Saturday 8th / Sunday 9th June 2024

An affordable family-friendly Volkswagen Festival, features a Saturday VW Show & Shine, three music stages, comedy, quality food, traders, workshops, and a dedicated kids’ zone.

WOOF WOOF! This festival is dog-friendly (as long as they are kept on a lead).

Adult day tickets are available from £15.00, full adult event pass from £60.00, and camping from £15.00 (EHU options available). Book a ‘Glitzy Plot’ for your own shower shack! Payment plans are available.

Buy tickets for Alive and V-Dubbin festival 2024

Bristol Volksfest, Birches Farm, Bristol – Friday 7th / Saturday 8th / Sunday 9th June 2024

Bristol Volksfest, a grassroots VW festival, embraces the best of the VW scene, lifestyle, and culture, with the added attraction of a Show and Shine.

WOOF WOOF! This festival is dog-friendly (as long as they are kept on a lead).

Adult event passes are available from £55, plus £5 vehicle pass (early bird prices, payment plans available).

Book tickets for Bristol Volksfest 2024

Mighty Dub Fest, Alnwick Castle, Northumberland – Friday 14th / Saturday 15th / Sunday 16th June 2024

Mighty Dub Fest, dubbed as “the North East’s family festival, celebrating VW’s and live music,” offers a weekend filled with entertainment on three stages, craft workshops for kids, fairground attractions, trade stands, dog shows, diverse street food, on-site bars, and a “Show and Shine” event on Sunday. Mighty Dub Fest welcomes everyone, regardless of whether they own a VW.

WOOF WOOF! This is the perfect location for your furry friends! They even have a dog show…!

Adult day tickets are available from £10.00, full adult event pass from £65.00, and camping from £5.00 (no EHU options available). Payment plans are available.

Buy tickets for Mighty Dub Fest 2024.

Newark Motorhome & Campervan Show, Newark Showground – Friday 14th / Saturday 15th / Sunday 16thJune 2024

Stay for up to 4 nights at this vanlife gathering and find out everything you need to know about all things camper van. Local and national dealers will showcase a heady selection of new and used motorhomes and campervans for sale, plus there’ll be exhibitors offering outdoor leisure accessories, and you can immerse yourself in a packed timetable of informative talks from industry pros.

The festival’s camping pitches include four nights of live entertainment, featuring a headline show from Explosive Light Orchestra and Sweet Caroline. Day tickets are available for £6. This festival offers a rich variety of displays, from motorhomes and campervans to conversions, and essential accessories.

WOOF WOOF! Dogs are permitted on a short lead, but please note – some exclusions apply – dogs are permitted in marquees situated in the food court, but are NOT permitted in the main entertainment venues.

Camp from £77 for three nights (£132 inc. EHU),

Buy tickets for Newark Motorhome & Campervan Show 2024

Camperlife@Stratford,Stratford-upon-Avon Racecourse – Saturday 15th / Sunday 16thJune 2024

Having joined up with the established “International Campervan Show”, the weekend of 15-16 June 2024 will see the follow-up to the original family-run show “Vanlife Festival” – a popular event first held in 2022. These two merged shows have been renamed CAMPERLIFE@STRATFORD™ to form one mega event!

This is an event for everyone who loves camping and outdoor life, from basic one-person tents, through to roof tents, caravans and trailer-tents, motorhomes, custom/day vans, buses, coaches, horseboxes, RVs or ex-military trucks… organisers are expecting the most diverse gathering of campers in the UK.

A unique aspect of this new mega event is the “Social Media Meet-Up Zone” – your chance to meet some of the biggest Influencers and Content Creators in camping/vanlife circles. Here, you can chat to the characters behind the tweets, YT channels, vlogs and podcasts.

WOOF WOOF! This is a dog-friendly festival.

Adult day tickets are available from £13.50, with 3-night camping from £58.50 (micro-camper – larger pitches available).

Buy tickets for Camperlife@Stratford 2024

VanLifeFest, Scampston Hall, Malton, North Yorkshire – Friday 21st / Saturday 22nd / Sunday 23rd June 2024

Embark on a camper’s paradise at VanLife Fest, set against the picturesque backdrop of Scampston Hall near Malton, North Yorkshire, from June 21-23, 2024. This family-friendly extravaganza promises a weekend filled with live music, a bustling trade village showcasing campervan accessories and artisan crafts, and FREE family entertainment.

With great music festival vibes you can check-out a diverse range live bands, explore the trade village for handmade campervan festival souvenirs, and indulge in a plethora of family activities, from climbing walls to circus performances. Enjoy fully licensed bars, street food dining, and join the Coffee Club for talks and demonstrations from the world of van life.

WOOF WOOF! Dogs are welcome at VanLifeFest, but must be on a lead at all times.

Adult day tickets start from £15 (purchased pre-event), and camping is from £60.

Buy tickets for VanLifeFest 2024

Camper Jam, Weston Park, Shropshire – Friday 5th / Saturday 6th / Sunday 7th July 2024

Camper Jam stands as one of the UK’s most renowned and eagerly awaited VW festivals. The material of vanlife dreams for VW enthusiasts, it devotes an entire weekend to the vibrant VW community, embracing a celebration spanning from T1s to T6s. Infused with a family-friendly atmosphere, event activities cater to all ages – whether it’s tree climbing, craft workshops, live music, or the renowned Disco Shed – there’s something for everyone!

WOOF WOOF! Fido is welcome, but there are some ground rules: Dogs must be kept on a lead and theyare not permitted in the marquees after 8pm.

Camp for two nights from £65 or 3 nights from £85 (adult price).

Buy tickets for Camper Jam 2024

Dorset Volksfest, Wareham, Dorset – Friday 12th / Saturday 13th / Sunday 14th July 2024

Set in 35 acres of Dorset countryside, just outside Wareham, Dorset Volksfest has been the ultimate vanlife festival for VW fans since 2013. Thisrelaxed weekend of family entertainment includes awesome live music, a DJ/dance marquee, free things for kids to do, stunt shows, Show & Shine competition, trade village, a beer, cider & wine tent, a great choice of street food, all wrapped up in a lovely vibe!

Smaller T-series vans and similar can camp from £10, or cargo and LWB vans – such as Crafters – can camp from £2, plus there’s a per person ticket price – £60.00 per adult (early bird price). ‘Quiet’ camping pitches are available.

WOOF WOOF! Dogs are 100% welcome at DVF but they must be kept on a lead in the show area. Doggy water bowls will be found at various places around the site.

Book tickets for Dorset Volksfest 2024

The Norfolk Motorhome and Campervan Show, Norfolk Showground – Friday 19th / Saturday 20th / Sunday 21st July 2024

This 1950’s rock ‘n’ roll weekender has swiftly become a beloved annual highlight for campers. 2024’s headliners include Whole Lotta Shakin, Mark Robinson & The Counterfeit Crickets, and Steve Halliday as Elvis. A van life festival with a difference, there’ll be free jive classes and the opportunity to express your 50s flair at the on-site salon and barbershop.

Furthermore, will you find the perfect camper van? There’s a good chance you might – this event showcases a tempting range of new and used motorhomes and campervans for sale by local and national dealers.

The show guarantees an immersive experience, from jive classes to a 50s hair salon, making it a must-attend for campervan enthusiasts who love a bit of of retro charm and contemporary camper culture.

WOOF WOOF! Dogs are welcome at The Norfolk Motorhome and Campervan Show, but must be on a lead at all times.

Camp from £77 for three nights (£132 inc. EHU). Please note that some headeliner shows are charged additionally.

Book tickets for the Norfolk Motorhome and Campervan Show 2024

Dubs at the Castle, Caldicot Castle, Monmouthshire – Thursday 18th / Friday 19th / Saturday 20th / Sunday 21st July 2024

Dubs at the Castle 2024 invites families to a lively camping weekend crafted by passionate VW enthusiasts, promising a unique Volkswagen experience for both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts alike.

The event, set against a castle backdrop, features live bands, vibrant trader displays, club showcases, the beloved Old Skool Bike Competition, and the iconic Show ‘n Shine. Ensuring an inclusive atmosphere, the festival also caters to children with various activities and offers a tasty selection of food stalls. This is a great van life gathering if you want to immerse yourself in the captivating world of Volkswagens while enjoying the scenic surroundings of the castle grounds.

Tickets are available from £20 (day tickets) to £100 (camping).

Book tickets for Dubs at the Castle 2024

Urban Van Fest,Plumpton Racecourse, East Sussex- Friday 19th / Saturday 20th / Sunday 21st July 2024

We’re looking forward to the inaugural Urban Van Fest, a 3-day event set to unfold in the heart of East Sussex in July 2024. New to the campervan festival circuit, this is not just a celebration of van life; it’s a testament to inclusivity and a commitment to supporting The Samaritans.

Embrace the rhythmic beats at the Live Music stage, explore the eclectic offerings in the Market Place, and find serenity in the Wellness Area. The Children’s Area ensures family-friendly fun, while the diverse Food & Drink options will be on offer too.

The festival grounds will also host a Van Exhibit, showcasing the best vanlife vans – inspo ahoy! And, if the mood takes you, upgrade your van gear at one of the many trade stands. Urban Van Festival is not just a festival; it’s a convergence of passion, inclusivity, and support for a meaningful cause.

WOOF WOOF! Dogs are welcome on leads, and there will be a dedicated dog walking area.

Tickets are available from £10 (adult day tickets) to £110 (campervan, 3 nights).

Book tickets for Urban Van Fest 2024

VanLove Festival, Elvington Airfield, York – Friday 19th / Saturday 20th / Sunday 21st July 2024

Quite possibly one of the funnest vanlife events on the circuit in 2024, VanLove Fest promises one hell of a good time! The line-up includes Ibiza Anthems with Ellie Sax on the Friday night, Movie Hero Night with special guests Kevin and Perry on the decks on Saturday, and a Survivors Convoy bringing the festival to an epic close on the airfield runway on the Sunday. But going beyond the beats, there’s also the promise of workshops and talks, a wellness hub, food village, comedy and the usual traders.

New for 2024 there’s a whole array of camping zones – from ‘Runway Camping’ right in the thick of the action to ‘Adventure Van Camping’, ‘Accessible Camping’ and a ‘Family Camping Zone’. Whether you have a campervan or are an aspiring van lifer, this is one not to be missed!

WOOF WOOF! This festival is fun for all the family, and dogs are welcome too!

Day tickets are available from £19.50 per person, or camp on the iconic runway from £69.50 (epic value!)

Book tickets for VanLove Festival 2024

Bug Jam, Santa Pod Raceway, Wellingborough – Friday 26th / Saturday 27th / Sunday 28th July 2024

An authentic VW festival in every aspect, radiating a lively and enjoyable ambiance that embodies the true spirit of VW and Campervan culture. Recognised as Europe’s largest VW Show, this event seamlessly blends a fun selection of VW experiences, both on and off the track. This is a motorhead’s dream.

Bug Jam features multiple music arenas, including the Main Stage, Dance Tent, BugWam, and Fuelers Bar. On Friday and Saturday nights, a diverse range of music awaits, catering to various tastes— from indie and dance DJs to live bands and tribute acts. But not only that, there’s also the usual festival stuff and… BUG JAM’S GOT TALENT! You have just 3 minutes to impress the crowd with your unique talent and you could win up to £200 in cash!

WOOF WOOF! Unfortunately no dogs are allowed on site.

Tickets for Bug Jam must be pre-booked. Weekend tickets are priced from £110, kid’s weekend tickets are just £10.

Book tickets for Bug Jam 2024

Dubbed Out Festival, The Royal Cheshire Showground – Thursday 25th / Friday 26th / Saturday 27th / Sunday 28th July 2024

Dubbed Out Festival, a newcomer to the festival scene, achieved remarkable success in 2022, prompting the need for a larger venue for its summer 2023 edition. Due to its continued popularity, Dubbed Out Festival is set to make a triumphant return to The Royal Cheshire Showground for the summer of 2024.

This year we’re expecting family festival vibes with big top tents, live bands, top DJ’s, fine food, bars, stalls and more.

WOOF WOOF! Dogs are welcome at this festival.

Book your tickets for Dubbed Out Festival 2024

Dubs South Campout, Strawberry Barn, Fareham – Friday 26th / Saturday 27th / Sunday 28th July 2024

This is a chilled out VW rally near Bishops Waltham in Hampshire. During the day, there’s a bouncy castle for the kids and live music for dancing at night. There’s a campout hangout and cozy spots to relax and chat in the sun, in your tent or under the stars. Also, free movie nights on Friday and Saturday, so bring a chair and a blanket. And don’t miss the silent disco every evening! For those who love a ‘Show and Shine’, be sure to fancy up your vans for the awards.

WOOF WOOF! Dogs are welcome at Dubs South Campout, but must be on a lead at all times.

Tickets are available from £56 for a weekend ticket, and price is per 6m x 6m pitch not per person!

Book tickets for Dubs South Campout 2024

VW Festival 2024, Harewood House, Leeds – Friday 9th / Saturday 10th / Sunday 11th August 2024

The VW Festival isn’t just about VW’s, you know? There’s something for everyone at the VW Festival, no matter your age or interests. It’s a weekend of fun for the whole fam. This year, they’ve got live bands, a raffle for a beetle (true story: you could win one!), and, of course, a Show & Shine – bound to feature some of the best campers in the UK.

With a ‘Back to the ’90s Party’ and fancy dress, there’s plenty to keep you going all weekend long. Can’t wait!

WOOF WOOF! This is the perfect festival for your furry friends, theyeven have a dog show!

You can camp from £65.00 per adult, plus a pitch pass of £20 per party. Adult day tickets are available from £20.00.

Book tickets for VW Festival 2024

The Western Motorhome & Campervan Show, Three Counties Showground, Malvern – Friday 16th / Saturday 17th / Sunday 18th August 2024

We’re expecting another epic festival from the Warners Shows – the crew behind the Motorhome & Campervan series. With over 6,000 guests expected, this is their biggest event of the year. This is must visit event for all country music loving campervan enthusiasts. There’ll be live Country Music bands across three stages, including headliners Dominic Halpin & the Hurricanes. Grab your hat, lace up your boots and get involved in the free line dancing tuition!

This is all alongside the usual suspects: new and used campervans for sale, traders, and demonstrations.

Get four nights campingfor £82,including 12 digital issues ofWhat Motorhome magazine.

WOOF WOOF! Dogs are welcome, as long as they are kept on a short lead. You’ll be able to bring your four-legged friend into the marquees situated in the food court, but not into the main entertainment venues.

Book tickets for The Western Motorhome & Campervan Show 2024

Vdub at the Pub, Wimborne – Friday 16th / Saturday 17th / Sunday 18th August 2024

Vdub at the Pub is all about celebrating Dorset, dubs, and the outdoors. The music is top-notch (no cover bands here) and loads of cool stuff – including a dodgeball tournament, a vintage bike ride, kayaking, mini steam engines, and a creative area for kids. On Sunday, you can check out the VW show, and there’s also awesome food and market stalls all weekend.

Where does the ‘pub’ come into it? The beer tent is the ‘pub’! It’ll be serving up local ales, Dorset fruit ciders, and some tasty summer cocktails… all by the river in Wimborne Minster.

WOOF WOOF! Dogs are welcome, as long as they are kept on a short lead. They are not allowed into the main entertainment venues.

Day tickets are available from £8.00 (per adult) and weekend camping from £60.00 (per adult).

Buy tickets for Vdub at the Pub

Volkfest Wales, Watton Show Fields, Brecon – Friday 16th / Saturday 17th / Sunday 18th August 2024

This year’s show marks the 25th Anniversary celebration. Friday will start in earnest with trade area, catering, bar and live music. Saturday brings the exciting Crawl To The Hills cruise, Volksfest Knockout, auto jumble, vehicles for sale, and free circus skills workshops. There’ll be fair rides, a free kids’ tea party, live music, and a dazzling Fire Poi display. Saturday night transforms into a fancy dress extravaganza. On Sunday, don’t miss the Show & Shine Competition.

WOOF WOOF! This is a dog-friendly festival; dogs must be kept on a lead.

Day visitors are welcome from £5.00 per person.

Book tickets for Volkfest Wales 2024

Cranium Campout, The orchard of Puddle Wharf Farm, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove – Friday 16th / Saturday 17th / Sunday 18th August 2024

With a mission to be one of the most family-friendly events on the 2024 van life calendar, the organisers are out to craft a fun and friendly environment that caters to all family members. The event promises entertainment for both children and adults, featuring live music, a delectable array of food and drinks, engaging games, and entertainers spread across the entire weekend. The dream? To unite like-minded families, fostering a shared love for the great outdoors.

WOOF WOOF! This is a dog-friendly festival; dogs must be kept on a lead.

Camping tickets are available from £100 (4 people, 1 vehicle, includes festival access).

Book tickets for Cranium Campout 2024

Vanlife Eats, Dummer Down Farm, Basingstoke –Friday 23rd / Saturday 24th / Sunday 25th August 2024

Vanlife Eats, a haven for foodies, unfolds over three days of van life activities and nights of camping across four picturesque fields on a charming farm in the heart of Hampshire.

The unique atmosphere of this event sets it apart from any other! You can explore the farm shop and brewery, immerse yourself in cooking demos, find tranquility in yoga and breathwork sessions, engage in vanlife workshops and talks, go foraging, and participate in the annual Van Bake Off.

With a blend of culinary delights, van life enthusiasts are in for a treat at Vanlife Eats, where the fusion of flavours and vanlife experience is a hard-to-resist combo for food enthusiasts and nomadic spirits alike.

WOOF WOOF! For your furry friend there’s a pet show and agility course.

Get 3-day event access and 3 nights camping (campervan and doggy pass included) for £79.00.

Book tickets for Vanlife Eats 2024

Camper Calling, Ragley Hall, Warwickshire – Friday 23rd / Saturday 24th / Sunday 25th August 2024

Camper Calling, vanlife’s premier music festival, returns for its 8th year at the stunning Ragley Hall. The 2024 festival boasts headliners Travis and Sophie Ellis-Bextor, promising an unforgettable experience filled with music, laughter, and great memories.

Catering to families, the festival offers a range of exciting activities for all ages, including arts and crafts workshops, games, and diverse food vendors. Amidst Ragley Hall’s scenic surroundings and lakeside views, van dwellers and festival-goers can enjoy nature’s embrace while immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Camper Calling.

WOOF WOOF! Dogs are allowed at this festival, butthey are not allowed in marquees/tents after 8pm and must be kept at least 50m away from any outdoor stages.

Get 3 nights camping from £150 per person, plus £25 campervan pass.

Book tickets for Camper Calling 2024

Busfest, Three Counties Showground, Malvern – Friday 6th / Saturday 7th / Sunday 8th September 2024

Busfest is the concorde of VW Transporter festivals and is widely regarded as the world’s largest! The event offers an exhilarating program, featuring an array of attractions such as tradestands, vehicle sales, a funfair, children’s entertainers, and live music across five stages.

The stunt show is a big pull, as are the Syncro Trail and Syncro Obstacle Course. With a huge helping of fun factor, Busfest guarantees an unforgettable celebration for VW enthusiasts and vanlife aficionados, solidifying its reputation as the premier event in the global Transporter festival circuit.

WOOF WOOF! Is Busfest a dog-friendly festival? Well, dogs can attend Busfest, but there are some strict rules about where they are allowed and when. Each party-going pup will need to wear a ‘pooch band’ throughout.

Busfest tickets are available from £60 per adult plus £25 per campervan.

Buy tickets for Busfest 2024

The South West Motorhome & Campervan Show, Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet – Friday 6th / Saturday 7th / Sunday 8th September 2024

The South West Motorhome & Campervan Show at the Bath and West Showground promises to cater to all levels of wanderlust – with a range of campervans and motorhomes for sale. 2024’s programme includes informative talks delivered by industry experts and personalities, and the entertainment quotient is strong with a headline performance by Andy Scott’s Sweet, Beardsmith, and Jo Farrow channeling the iconic Annie Lennox.

For those seeking an adventurous twist, the event also offers archery and axe-throwing games and tuition, providing a unique and exciting dimension to the motorhome and campervan lifestyle celebration.

WOOF WOOF! Dogs are permitted, but they must be kept on on a short lead. Pups are permitted in marquees situated in the food court, but are NOT permitted in the main entertainment venues.

Day tickets are available from £7 or for £82 you can camp with four nights of live entertainment included in your pitch.

Buy tickets for the South West Motorhome & Campervan Show 2024

VDubs in the Valley, Shropshire – Friday 13th / Saturday 14th / Sunday 15th September 2024

VDubs in the Valley, a family-friendly VW Show in Shropshire, is marking its 10th anniversary with a vibrant Mardi Gras theme—so get ready to dress to impress! The event deliberately maintains a small size to preserve its welcoming VW atmosphere. There’ll be family-friendly entertainment, live bands, and the standard Show & Shine competition, ensuring a delightful celebration of all things VW in a warm and friendly setting.

WOOF WOOF! Dogs are allowed at the show but are not permitted in the entertainment marquee during peak periods.

Weekend tickets are £45 for adults and £10 for teens, under 14s go free.

Buy tickets for VDubs in the Valley 2024

Adventure Overland & Campervan Show, Stratford Racecourse, Warwickshire – Saturday 14th / Sunday 15th September2024

The Adventure Overland Show stands as a premier adventure van expo celebrating classic 4WDs like Land Rovers, versatile 4WD crossovers such as Mercedes Sprinters and VW Transporters, and smaller yet formidable four-wheel-drives like the Skoda Yeti or Citroen Berlingo. But that’s not to say 2WDs aren’t welcome! From horseboxes to Caddys, anything that identifies as a campervan (or campervan enthusiast) is welcome!

With two full days of free-to-attend seminars, the event boasts a diverse range of topics covering 4x4s, 2WD campervans, adventure bikes, and expedition trucks.

Explore the bustling marketplace featuring campervan and truck conversion specialists, witness impressive display vehicles in the “Field of Dreams”®, and immerse yourself in the “Travel Author’s Zone” with book signings. The Adventure Bike Zone and interactive workshops add to the excitement, making this event the biggest and best in the realm of adventure and overland exploration.

WOOF WOOF! This is a dog-friendly festival, but dogs must be kept on a short lead.

Day tickets are available from £10, camping passes from £59.00 (includes two adults on a ‘micro’ camping pitch, large and oversize are available.

Buy tickets for the Adventure Overland and Campervan Show

The Motorhome & Campervan Show Season Finale, Lincolnshire Showground, Lincoln – Friday 20th / Saturday 21st / Sunday 22nd September 2024

The Motorhome & Campervan Show Season Finale at Lincolnshire Showground is often dubbed ‘the big end of season rally,’ serving as a fitting wrap-up for the season. It provides the perfect opportunity for full time van lifers and weekend warriors to reconvene and celebrate their shared passion.

Whether you’re in the market for your first campervan or looking to make a change, the event offers an array of new and used motorhomes and campervans for sale, with exclusive show offers and a sneak peek at the new 2025 models. Amidst the festival atmosphere, you can enjoy live music, peruse market stalls, and partake in family-friendly entertainment, making it a lively and enjoyable conclusion to the camping season.

WOOF WOOF! This is a dog-friendly event, but dogs must be kept on a short lead.

Day tickets are available from £7 and general camping (3 nights) from £77 without EHU or £142 with EHU.

Buy tickets for The Motorhome & Campervan Show Season Finale

Oktoberfest,River Dart Country Park, Devon – Friday 4th / Saturday 5th / Sunday 6th October 2024

This festival promises a unique and memorable experience for all, celebrating the spirit of van life in a beautiful setting. As the only event on the October calendar, Oktoberfest marks the conclusion of the festival season, offering a fitting finale for van lifers to gather, share stories, and revel in the camaraderie of the road.

Friday night kicks off with an Oktoberfest Beerkeller fancy dress party, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening. The excitement reaches its peak on Saturday night with the renowned themed Fancy Dress Party. In the daytime there’ll be a dog show, a traditional Show & Shine event on Sunday, circus workshops, entertaining eating competitions, and a lively scavenger hunt.

Book tickets for Oktoberfest 2024

Van Life Events… Pending

Dubs at the Beach, Esplanade Road, Torbay – No event details for 2024 as yet

A longstanding favourite on the VW calendar, Dubs at the Beach transforms Esplanade Road, Torbay into a vibrant haven for VW enthusiasts and van life aficionados.

Dubtoberfest, Cheltenham Racecourse – No event details for 2024 as yet

Dubtoberfest transforms Cheltenham Racecourse into a lively gathering for VW enthusiasts, featuring a fusion of music, entertainment, and the unmistakable charm of the VW community.

Vantastival, Beaulieu House, Drogheda, Co. Louth | 2024 event TBC

Held at the epic Beaulieu House in Drogheda, Vantastival is a dynamic celebration of van life, offering a unique blend of music, arts, and community spirit.

Van Life Gatherings On Pause for 2024

As the festival season unfolds, some beloved favorites have announced a temporary pause for 2024, with hopeful plans to make a triumphant return to the line-up in 2025. These include:

VW FAB Festival, Strumpshaw Hall Steam Museum, Strumpshaw

The crew behind this festival initially announced that 2024 would be a “gap year” for VW FAB Festival with the event returning in 2025 and ticket sales were live… but checking recently (Jan ’24), there’s no sign of the festival’s website, so this is one we’re not sure about. We’ll try to keep you updated!

Camp Quirky, Kelmarsh Estate, Northamptonshire – 17th / 18th / 19th / 20th May 2024 | CANCELLED

Sad times: One of the most popular events on the van life calendar won’t be taking place this year. Over 3,000 people and 600 dogs attended Camp Quirky 2023 but they have decided to ‘take a fallow year to closely observe how other festivals are managing during these incredibly challenging times for the events industry’ and want to ‘reevaluate what sort of event would best serve the community’.

Read the full announcement

VW Whitenoise Festival, Norfolk Showground, Norwich

Last held in August 2023, The VW Whitenoise Festival makes the simple promise of being ‘where friends and families come together for good times’… but not in 2024 it seems. They have announced that ‘due to a combination of factors and new opportunities for us in this fast-changing world’ they’ll not be hosting the festival in 2024. We hope to see this one back in the line-up in 2025!

Read the full announcement

That’s All Folks!

From the iconic classics to the vibrant newcomers, 2024 is going to be a big year for van life festivals in the UK. While some favourites are taking a brief hiatus this year, the promise of their return in 2025 adds an extra layer of excitement for the future. Until then, let’s live our best van life, one festival at a time!

If I’ve missed any 2024 van life gatherings from my list, please let me know and I’ll add them in! Or, if you’re planning to be one of 2025’s biggest newcomer – tell me all about it!

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