Words: Staff | Photos: Edmyr Barayang | @theoverlandculture
The 2023 Adventure Van Expo Series kicked off its inaugural tour in style this past weekend (April 29-30th) at the Mission Viejo Riding Center in San Juan Capistrano. The show featured tons of custom adventure vans and other off-road and overland rigs with the latest and greatest products on display from an event-record 120 vendors, attracting crowds from far and wide.
Attendees had the chance to meet with builders, network with vanlifers, and see some of the most innovative and unique workmanship in the industry. There were plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained at the show, including live music from Sanford Street Band on Saturday and Sunstroke Serrinaders on Sunday. Attendees could also check out talks and classes, buy accessories for their van, camp, bring their dogs, and tour DIY and Pro-built vans that were on display. With food trucks, bars, and snacks on hand, it was a weekend full of great times and unforgettable memories.
One of the highlights of the show was the unveiling of three new vans: Adrenalin vans, Caleche Custom Kia camper, and Storytellers Transit. These cutting-edge vehicles wowed the crowd and demonstrated the latest trends and technologies in the adventure van industry.
Another highlight was the partnership between Adventure Van Expo and the San Juan Cap Rotary. The show contributed half of the gate fees, generating roughly $30,000, to the charitable organization. It was a proud moment for everyone involved, knowing that they had contributed to a good cause while enjoying a fantastic event.
Overall, it was a highly successful show with excellent feedback from attendees. The organizers are already looking forward to the next stop in Sonoma, CA, on May 13th-14th. For more information and a list of upcoming tour stops, visit their website at www.adventurevanexpo.com.