2023 is right around the corner, and we’re already marking up our calendars for some epic Vanlife gatherings coming up next year! This is in no way a definitive list – there are SEVERAL to choose from, and many yet to be announced, but these, in particular, have been on our radar for good reason, and we thought we’d share in case you wanted to roll on through, too!
Without further ado, here are 8 epic Vanlife gatherings to check out in 2023! In order of date, (details may change – we will update this page as changes come through!)
Escapers Winter Blast Convergence
January 14-22, 2023
Lake Havasu, Arizona
Come January half the country will be covered in snow, and chances are the post-holiday blues will start to set in. Why not escape to sunny Lake Havasu, Arizona for a week of good vibes, warm(er) weather, and outdoor shenanigans? The week will be filled with live music, firework displays, social gatherings, delicious food and so much more. Make lifelong friendships and memories that’ll last forever.
Escapar a la Baja, Cuatro
February 1 to 6, 2023
Playa El Tecolote, Baja California Sur, Mexico
The fourth annual (and free) Escapar a la Baja van life and Overlanding festival will be held at Playa El Tecolote on a dramatic white sand beach overlooking the Gulf of California and breathtaking Isla Espiritu Santo! We can’t think of a better way to escape the last bit of winter than a Mexican getaway! This will be sure to have good vibes and lots of sunshine. A perfect place to camp your van and make lifelong memories, and a brilliant excuse to get down to Mexico!
TinyFest California
March 11-12, 2024
San Diego, California
TinyFest celebrates the nomadic lifestyle, tiny living, van conversions, gypsy wagons, skoolies, and more! Be inspired, gain insight, connect with your tribe and have some fun along the way in sunny SoCal!
Lightning in A Bottle
May 24-29, 2023
Buena Vista Lake, Kern County, CA
Ok, not exactly a Vanlife gathering but trust us – it’s one of the most epic music, arts, and community festivals you’ll ever go to in your lifetime. 2023 just so happens to be their 20th anniversary as well!
Perfect for Vanlifers, this 5-day festival set on a stunning lake in Southern California is home to an open-minded, creative community of artists, yogis, musicians, chefs, dancers – you name it. It’s even kid-friendly, super-inclusive, and it’s really up to you how you want to experience the festival. If dancing until dawn to techno is more your vibe, go for it! If sound healing and meditation workshops are more your jam, they’ve got those too. You don’t want to miss this beautiful gathering of humanity, art, celebration, and ideas!
Descend on Lost Sierra
May 26-29, 2022
Lost Sierra, California
A unique, private van-friendly camping experience held on California’s Lost Sierra with live music, a daily maker’s market, morning yoga classes, coffee and Affogato offerings (um, yum!), and luxury amenities for an enjoyable 3-days out in the wild.
50th Annual National Truck-In
July 5-9 2023
Sterling, Colorado
All Vans are welcome to this 50th annual gathering! There will be a judged van show, games, activities for both kids and adults, live music, seminars, vendors, and more to enjoy. A perfect way to spend a festive summer weekend!
Overland Expo
August 25-27, 2023
Loveland, Colorado
Overland expo offers more than 300 session hours of incredible programs – no other event offers the scope of classes taught by the world’s leading experts alongside a professional-level trade show that brings together all the camping and vehicle and motorcycle equipment. An awesome way to enjoy the wild beauty that Colorado has to offer.
Adventure Van Expo
2023 Dates TBD, Various Locations
We’ve got a soft spot for the Adventure Van Expo series as they were Bemyvan’s grand event debut in 2022! We’re excited to see what next year has in store and plan to attend several of them (they’re in locations like Lake Tahoe, Bend, and Big Bear!) The expos are family friendly and open to all ages, in addition to the van displays you can find yummy food trucks , local brews, live music, and fun activities throughout the weekend. Camping is also available at the majority of the shows.
If you’ve been curious about exploring a more nomadic lifestyle, or you’ve taken the plunge and are ready to build community with your home on wheels, these events are awesome for bringing like-minds together. You only need to visit one of these events to get a taste of the lifestyle, and we’re sure you’ll find there’s something for everyone, whether you have a van or not. These gatherings honor inclusivity, expression, and adventure.
We look forward to seeing you down the road!