We’re back baby, and to kick off the summer we’re putting together our annual event guide. The 2016 East Coast Event Guide is “THE” official list any east coast Overland event that is worth a damn needs to be on.
How did we develop our rigorous selection criteria? We drank a few beers and decided which ones we would actually want to attend, it also helps that we’ve experienced all of them during previous years.
So, just as in years past, DirtRoadTrip is planning on attending every event on this list. This means we’ll be driving over 3,000 miles crisscrossing the east cost, and at times, having to be in two places at the same time.
So what events made the list?
Mid-Atlantic Overland Festival
When: August 11-14
Where: Henwood Family Farm – Huntingdon, PA
What To Expect: 3 days of workshops, exhibits, and trail riding in Bald Eagle State Forest.
Why You Should Go: The event is held in central Pennsylvania on a beautiful working farm, and is a convenient drive from all points in the Mid-Atlantic. This year they’re featuring dozens of vendors, but the biggest reason to come to this event is to sit around the fire and share a keg with Matt and Pete Henwood.
Details: Click Here
American Adventurist’s Appalachian Rendezvous
When: September 30 – October 2
Where: Uwharrie Off-Road Training Center – Uwharrie, NC
What To Expect: 3 days of dutch oven cooking, kayaking, mountain biking, and of course hitting the trails at the Big Creek Off-Road Training Center and the Uwharrie National Forest.
Why You Should Go: The Rendezvous is a super casual atmosphere where you’ll get a chance to hit the trails and sample some amazing food at the world famous potluck. It’s a family friendly event with great people, good stories, and awesome rigs. Be sure to check out the kissing booth at North American Expeditions and to get a free hug from Dave AKA TacoDoc.
Details: Click Here
Overland Expo East
When: October 7-9
Where: Biltmore Estates – Asheville, NC
What To Expect: 3 days of lectures, classes, an official Land Rover driving event, and every piece of “Overland” equipment you’ve ever seen, wanted to see, or drooled over on the internet.
Why You Should Go: Expo East is the SEMA of the overlanding world, it’s a place where you’ll get to put your hands on every piece of equipment you’ve ever imagined and the classes are taught by some of the most experienced people in the industry, including our own Mark Farage. It’s also being hosted at the Biltmore this year, so come join TeamDRT for some for some #hotelverlanding action.
Details: Click Here
Vermont Overland Rally
When: September 29 – October 2
Where: Royalton Farms – South Royalton, VT
What To Expect: The VOR has the best trail network on the east coast along with arguably some of the best beer. There are vendors present, but the event is more a gathering of travelers and adventurers who are looking to get out and use their rigs. This isn’t a show and shine, but growing an epic mustache prior to the event is almost a requirement.
Why You Should Go: All I’m going to say about this event is the same thing I said last year, I still stand by my original statement. If Expo East is the SEMA of the overland industry, VOR is Burning Man. Come to Vermont to hit the beautiful trail network, meet the Vermont Overland team, and participate in the shenanigans around the fire. If you’ve never been to Vermont before, you’re missing out.
Details: Click Here
We hope to see all of you out on the road this year, and as always, please drop in, say hi, and have a cold one on us.
Safe travels!
Roger says
VOR Overland Burning Man, but you get to keep your cloths on. As I recall the first time my family met you at Mid Atlantic you where running around in your ExOfficio.
Alex says
Guess I made a pretty good first impression then?