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How can I contact you?You can email us at hello@vanfestusa.com or call 805.826.3378. The Instagram for all VanFest events (Van-O-Ween included) is @vanfestusa, and the official hashtag for VanFest is #vanfestusa or #vanfest. For Van-O-Ween please use #Van-O-Weengathering as well!What is Van-O-Ween?Van-O-Ween is a Halloween-themed vanlife/nomad celebration, held in Apache Junction, AZ. We aim to create a safe, inclusive space where all are welcome, regardless of the myraid of things that may divide us in this world. Van-O-Ween is many things - a festival celebrating the nomadic community, an amazing weekend-long Halloween party, and a mecca for anyone who wants to have a great long weekend with like-minded people. Van-O-Ween is run by VanFest.Who/what is VanFest?VanFest is run by Lance and Jess – a couple who are full-time vanlifers themselves and wanted to create a distinctive gathering spot for the nomadic at heart. It’s a celebration of the vanlife community, a testament to the spirit of adventure, and a hub of inspiration for those planning their own journey into this unique lifestyle. At each event, hundreds of converted vans, buses, and other vehicles converge and open up for tours, providing a real-world source of awe and inspiration for attendees. From seasoned vanlifers to those who’ve only seen the beautiful builds on social media, everyone is welcomed to explore, learn, and connect at VanFest!Do I need a van to attend Van-O-Ween?Definitely not! Any/all types of rigs are welcome, and all we ask is that you have the vanlife spirit. We’ve had folks in cars/SUVs, minivans, buses, box trucks, ambulances, and everything in-between. We’ll also have room available for tent camping!Is this a family-friendly event?Yes! Van-O-Ween is suitable for people of all ages! While some of the music / performances may contain lyrics/language that is a bit more adult, we work with artists to minimize the impact of it. Any activities that are 18+ will be marked on the schedule.What happens if an event is canceled?If our event is canceled for any reason, including public health-related reasons, you will receive either a free spot at a rescheduled or different VanFest event, or a full refund for your tickets. We will not issue refunds if you cannot make an event due to personal circumstances. Van-O-Ween is a rain-or-shine event, and we don’t foresee any reason to cancel on our end.Can I sell something at Van-O-Ween?Yes! If you intend on selling products or services out of your camping spot/rig, you are required to research and pay all appropriate local taxes. We have officially informed you of this, and it's on you now. ;)Do I have to camp at the event?Nope! If you just want to come by for the day/night and hang out that's cool, just grab a General Admission ticket. GA ticket holders must exit by 11pm.Tell me all about camping at Van-O-Ween!Camping at Van-O-Ween? SWEET! When you arrive you’ll need to show the entrance attendant your ticket (digital or printed), which will get you into the event grounds. You’ll also be issued wristbands (which must be worn at all times), an exhibiting pass, raffle tickets, and a site map.Hook ups are not available, so you must be 100% self-contained and please, don't leak anything onto the ground.We’ll be arranging rigs into rows and parking everyone so that the passenger/slider door faces outwards, with about 35’ in between for your outside setups and a walking area between them. The driver/non-slider side of your van might be parked relatively close to your neighbor. You will not be ASSIGNED specific spots, but you'll be directed on where to park upon arrival. If you would like to park near/next to friends, we recommend that you meet up outside of the event and enter together so that you end up being parked near each other.What camping spot am I assigned?You will not be assigned specific spots. If you would like to park near/next to friends, we recommend that you meet up outside of the event and enter together so that you end up being parked near each other. Parking will be on a first come, first served basis.What should I bring to Van-O-Ween?Along with the stuff you normally camp within your rig, we recommend bringing the following:– Camping chairs and/or a blanket. Many activities will be outside, so you’ll want to have a nice place to sit.
– Insect spray or other insect repellants (no “bug bombs” please).
– Flashlights. We’ll have minimal lighting, but it’s always good to have a flashlight when outside at night.
– Food and beverage for the length of the event. We’ll have food trucks and beverages on site, but you’re welcome to bring anything you wish to enjoy during the gathering and with all that we have planned, you probably won’t want to leave to go shopping!
– Your own plates/silverware/cups. We want to reduce single-use waste as much as possible.
– Sunblock, hats, sunglasses and other forms of sun protection.
– Hiking gear or a bike if you want to explore before/after the event.Will there be bathrooms/showers?There will be portable toilets on site which will be cleaned/stocked regularly.Showers? No. While we'd love to have a portable shower truck available, they're generally about $8000+. If anyone would like to cover this cost please reach out!Who needs to have tickets?A camping ticket is good for admission for two adults and their children into the event.For Day Use / General Admission, children under the age of 13 are not required to have tickets but are required to be with a parent/legal guardian who does. Campers, vendors, and sponsors, all come with various levels of GA access. Wristbands will be given upon check-in, and must be worn at all times during the event.Where’s the nearest gas station / grocery store / water fill / RV dump / restaurant?Great questions! Check out the local resources guideCan I help out at Van-O-Ween?Absolutely! We have a small number of paid and volunteer positions available. Check out the Get Involved page for more info and [shoot us an email](mailto:hello@vanfestusa.com?subject=Getting Involved with Van-O-Ween] if you want to join!How long is Van-O-Ween?Van-O-Ween is a four-day weekend affair, starting on Thursday 10/30 at 2pm MT, and ending on Monday 11/3 at 12pm MT. Everyone must depart the grounds by 12pm MT.Are pets allowed?Yes! Bring your furry friends – but you must have them on a leash and you are 100% responsible for their behavior. Please clean up after your pets and properly dispose of anything they create in the trash cans on site. All pets must be well behaved, and if any animal that is displaying aggressive behavior they’ll need to remain inside a locked vehicle for the safety of the animal and Van-O-Ween attendees. If a pet is a disturbance to others and you are unable to rectify the sitaution, you will be asked to leave the event with no refund issued.Can I leave the venue and come back?Yes, but ideally not in your rig. While we won't stop you, it might be difficult to get out/back in. We suggest leaving the venue on foot/bike/rideshare (from the front gate), but you must show your ticket & wristband again at the entrance. If you’re camping and you know you’ll need to leave before the event officially ends, let us know at hello@vanfestusa.com and we’ll ensure that you can sneak out. If you just want to leave to check out the town or grab something at the store, plan on walking, cycling, or using a rideshare service.If you have an emergency come up and need to move your rig, find a VanFest staff member and we’ll make it happen.Will there be water/power at the event?No. Prepare to be “off-grid” for your duration of your time at Van-O-Ween. We’ll send out an email prior to the event with the best locations nearby for water, gas, etc -- you can also check out the (Local Resources guide**){#resources] for this info. Please dump all toilets and waste tanks before arrival.Can I use a generator?Generators will be allowed ONLY from 10am to 8pm, but we strongly advise against generator use in general due to the fact that everyone will be parked close together, and generators create irritating and potentially harmful exhaust fumes and unwanted noise. Your best source of power will be the sun! ☀️If you MUST run a generator reach out and let us know -- we'll probably put you a bit away from everyone else.Do I have to attend the whole event?No, but for those camping early departures MUST be coordinated ahead of time (unless there is an emergency). If you are camping and know that you'll need to leave early please let us know ASAP at hello@vanfestusa.comm to make sure you’re accommodated and can easily get out.Will there be food/alcohol at Van-O-Ween?We love food – who doesn’t?! We'll have a select few locally owned/operated food trucks to provide an amazing culinary experience (ok, you’re eating outside at a vanlife event – the experience will certainly be unique, but the food will definitely be amazing!)We’ll be adding the names/details of food trucks that will be attending to the schedule page once we have that information.Can I bring my own food & alcohol?If you are attending the event as a camper you may bring your own food & alcohol. BUT, please consume alcohol (or anything else) responsibly. If you appear too intoxicated you create an awkward or potentially unsafe situation for everyone, and we don't want to have to ask you to leave. We encourage you to bring your own reusable plates/utensils to minimize single-use waste.Is there cell phone service?****Yep! Tmobile works very well in the area, though we can't speak to other carriers. Starlink should work great, as there's no trees to get in the way. We’ll have a working phone available at the info booth for emergencies should anyone need it.Is there wifi at the venue?No. However, cell phone service is pretty good.Where do I go when I arrive at Van-O-Ween?You will be directed by the event staff as you enter the event, please follow their directions.What activities are nearby the event?Lots, especially if you like hiking! Van-O-Ween will be right near Lost Dutchman State Park and the Superstition Mountains -- we highly suggest checking it out! Check out the local resources guide below as well.Are fires allowed?Yes! We've received the OK from the fire marshall for "personal campfires". Please follow the rules below:
  - Fires are above-ground (Solo Stove, mesh fire pit, etc).
  - Total fuel area does not exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height.
  - You must have an extinguishing method readily available (we suggest these portable extinguishers from Amazon.
  - Fire is not located within 25 feet of structure/combustable material.Please note - if winds or other conditions beyond our control arise, the fire marshall may not allow fires.Can I take pictures / videos / fly a drone?Not only are photos and videos of all aspects of the event are not only allowed, they’re encouraged! Snap/film away, share on socials, etc. All we ask is that you tag your photos with the #vanfest and #Van-O-Ween hash tag and tag @vanfestusa. Please also check out our Community Media page to share your photos and videos with us!Unfortunately, due to liability issues, drones are NOT allowed unless you're Part 107 licensed. It’s far too easy to seriously injure someone by crashing a drone into their face, and no one wants that. If you see any drones at Van-O-Ween, they’re flown by our licensed & insured media partners.Is smoking allowed?For tobacco - absolutely not. Cigarettes/cigars smell TERRIBLE and they're pretty gross. For the health and safety of everyone, Van-O-Ween is a tobacco-smoke-free event. If you must consume tobacco products, it must be smokeless (vape, dip, etc). If you use a vaporizer, please do so politely. If you dip, don't spit it on the ground. If you’re found smoking tobacco inside the venue, you’ll be asked to immediately stop; failure to do so will result in you being removed from the event. If you wish to smoke tobacco, please exit the venue on foot to do so, and please try to remain downwind.For weed, absolutely! Arizona is a legal state, and we suggest hitting up any number of dispensaries in the area. If you do light up, do so responsibly and make sure there are no children around. If someone asks you to smoke elsewhere, just be cool and oblige, okay?What are the COVID-19 policies at Van-O-Ween?While COVID has certainly abated, it’s still a small part of our lives. The past few years have also provided different levels of challenges to different people. We ask that you're open minded and respectful of other's medical needs and wishes as we navigate this odd post-COVID world we live in.

How can I contact you?You can email us at hello@vanfestusa.com or call 805.826.3378. The Instagram for all VanFest events (Van-O-Ween included) is @vanfestusa, and the official hashtag for VanFest is #vanfestusa or #vanfest. For Van-O-Ween please use #Van-O-Weengathering as well!What is Van-O-Ween?Van-O-Ween is a Halloween-themed vanlife/nomad celebration, held in Apache Junction, AZ. We aim to create a safe, inclusive space where all are welcome, regardless of the myraid of things that may divide us in this world. Van-O-Ween is many things - a festival celebrating the nomadic community, an amazing weekend-long Halloween party, and a mecca for anyone who wants to have a great long weekend with like-minded people. Van-O-Ween is run by VanFest.Who/what is VanFest?VanFest is run by Lance and Jess – a couple who are full-time vanlifers themselves and wanted to create a distinctive gathering spot for the nomadic at heart. It’s a celebration of the vanlife community, a testament to the spirit of adventure, and a hub of inspiration for those planning their own journey into this unique lifestyle. At each event, hundreds of converted vans, buses, and other vehicles converge and open up for tours, providing a real-world source of awe and inspiration for attendees. From seasoned vanlifers to those who’ve only seen the beautiful builds on social media, everyone is welcomed to explore, learn, and connect at VanFest!Do I need a van to attend Van-O-Ween?Definitely not! Any/all types of rigs are welcome, and all we ask is that you have the vanlife spirit. We’ve had folks in cars/SUVs, minivans, buses, box trucks, ambulances, and everything in-between. We’ll also have room available for tent camping!Is this a family-friendly event?Yes! Van-O-Ween is suitable for people of all ages! While some of the music / performances may contain lyrics/language that is a bit more adult, we work with artists to minimize the impact of it. Any activities that are 18+ will be marked on the schedule.What happens if an event is canceled?If our event is canceled for any reason, including public health-related reasons, you will receive either a free spot at a rescheduled or different VanFest event, or a full refund for your tickets. We will not issue refunds if you cannot make an event due to personal circumstances. Van-O-Ween is a rain-or-shine event, and we don’t foresee any reason to cancel on our end.Can I sell something at Van-O-Ween?Yes! If you intend on selling products or services out of your camping spot/rig, you are required to research and pay all appropriate local taxes. We have officially informed you of this, and it's on you now. ;)Do I have to camp at the event?Nope! If you just want to come by for the day/night and hang out that's cool, just grab a General Admission ticket. GA ticket holders must exit by 11pm.Tell me all about camping at Van-O-Ween!Camping at Van-O-Ween? SWEET! When you arrive you’ll need to show the entrance attendant your ticket (digital or printed), which will get you into the event grounds. You’ll also be issued wristbands (which must be worn at all times), an exhibiting pass, raffle tickets, and a site map.Hook ups are not available, so you must be 100% self-contained and please, don't leak anything onto the ground.We’ll be arranging rigs into rows and parking everyone so that the passenger/slider door faces outwards, with about 35’ in between for your outside setups and a walking area between them. The driver/non-slider side of your van might be parked relatively close to your neighbor. You will not be ASSIGNED specific spots, but you'll be directed on where to park upon arrival. If you would like to park near/next to friends, we recommend that you meet up outside of the event and enter together so that you end up being parked near each other.What camping spot am I assigned?You will not be assigned specific spots. If you would like to park near/next to friends, we recommend that you meet up outside of the event and enter together so that you end up being parked near each other. Parking will be on a first come, first served basis.What should I bring to Van-O-Ween?Along with the stuff you normally camp within your rig, we recommend bringing the following:– Camping chairs and/or a blanket. Many activities will be outside, so you’ll want to have a nice place to sit.
– Insect spray or other insect repellants (no “bug bombs” please).
– Flashlights. We’ll have minimal lighting, but it’s always good to have a flashlight when outside at night.
– Food and beverage for the length of the event. We’ll have food trucks and beverages on site, but you’re welcome to bring anything you wish to enjoy during the gathering and with all that we have planned, you probably won’t want to leave to go shopping!
– Your own plates/silverware/cups. We want to reduce single-use waste as much as possible.
– Sunblock, hats, sunglasses and other forms of sun protection.
– Hiking gear or a bike if you want to explore before/after the event.Will there be bathrooms/showers?There will be portable toilets on site which will be cleaned/stocked regularly.Showers? No. While we'd love to have a portable shower truck available, they're generally about $8000+. If anyone would like to cover this cost please reach out!Who needs to have tickets?A camping ticket is good for admission for two adults and their children into the event.For Day Use / General Admission, children under the age of 13 are not required to have tickets but are required to be with a parent/legal guardian who does. Campers, vendors, and sponsors, all come with various levels of GA access. Wristbands will be given upon check-in, and must be worn at all times during the event.Where’s the nearest gas station / grocery store / water fill / RV dump / restaurant?Great questions! Check out the local resources guideCan I help out at Van-O-Ween?Absolutely! We have a small number of paid and volunteer positions available. Check out the Get Involved page for more info and [shoot us an email](mailto:hello@vanfestusa.com?subject=Getting Involved with Van-O-Ween] if you want to join!How long is Van-O-Ween?Van-O-Ween is a four-day weekend affair, starting on Thursday 10/30 at 2pm MT, and ending on Monday 11/3 at 12pm MT. Everyone must depart the grounds by 12pm MT.Are pets allowed?Yes! Bring your furry friends – but you must have them on a leash and you are 100% responsible for their behavior. Please clean up after your pets and properly dispose of anything they create in the trash cans on site. All pets must be well behaved, and if any animal that is displaying aggressive behavior they’ll need to remain inside a locked vehicle for the safety of the animal and Van-O-Ween attendees. If a pet is a disturbance to others and you are unable to rectify the sitaution, you will be asked to leave the event with no refund issued.Can I leave the venue and come back?Yes, but ideally not in your rig. While we won't stop you, it might be difficult to get out/back in. We suggest leaving the venue on foot/bike/rideshare (from the front gate), but you must show your ticket & wristband again at the entrance. If you’re camping and you know you’ll need to leave before the event officially ends, let us know at hello@vanfestusa.com and we’ll ensure that you can sneak out. If you just want to leave to check out the town or grab something at the store, plan on walking, cycling, or using a rideshare service.If you have an emergency come up and need to move your rig, find a VanFest staff member and we’ll make it happen.Will there be water/power at the event?No. Prepare to be “off-grid” for your duration of your time at Van-O-Ween. We’ll send out an email prior to the event with the best locations nearby for water, gas, etc -- you can also check out the (Local Resources guide**){#resources] for this info. Please dump all toilets and waste tanks before arrival.Can I use a generator?Generators will be allowed ONLY from 10am to 8pm, but we strongly advise against generator use in general due to the fact that everyone will be parked close together, and generators create irritating and potentially harmful exhaust fumes and unwanted noise. Your best source of power will be the sun! ☀️If you MUST run a generator reach out and let us know -- we'll probably put you a bit away from everyone else.Do I have to attend the whole event?No, but for those camping early departures MUST be coordinated ahead of time (unless there is an emergency). If you are camping and know that you'll need to leave early please let us know ASAP at hello@vanfestusa.comm to make sure you’re accommodated and can easily get out.Will there be food/alcohol at Van-O-Ween?We love food – who doesn’t?! We'll have a select few locally owned/operated food trucks to provide an amazing culinary experience (ok, you’re eating outside at a vanlife event – the experience will certainly be unique, but the food will definitely be amazing!)We’ll be adding the names/details of food trucks that will be attending to the schedule page once we have that information.Can I bring my own food & alcohol?If you are attending the event as a camper you may bring your own food & alcohol. BUT, please consume alcohol (or anything else) responsibly. If you appear too intoxicated you create an awkward or potentially unsafe situation for everyone, and we don't want to have to ask you to leave. We encourage you to bring your own reusable plates/utensils to minimize single-use waste.Is there cell phone service?****Yep! Tmobile works very well in the area, though we can't speak to other carriers. Starlink should work great, as there's no trees to get in the way. We’ll have a working phone available at the info booth for emergencies should anyone need it.Is there wifi at the venue?No. However, cell phone service is pretty good.Where do I go when I arrive at Van-O-Ween?You will be directed by the event staff as you enter the event, please follow their directions.What activities are nearby the event?Lots, especially if you like hiking! Van-O-Ween will be right near Lost Dutchman State Park and the Superstition Mountains -- we highly suggest checking it out! Check out the local resources guide below as well.Are fires allowed?Yes! We've received the OK from the fire marshall for "personal campfires". Please follow the rules below:
  - Fires are above-ground (Solo Stove, mesh fire pit, etc).
  - Total fuel area does not exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height.
  - You must have an extinguishing method readily available (we suggest these portable extinguishers from Amazon.
  - Fire is not located within 25 feet of structure/combustable material.Please note - if winds or other conditions beyond our control arise, the fire marshall may not allow fires.Can I take pictures / videos / fly a drone?Not only are photos and videos of all aspects of the event are not only allowed, they’re encouraged! Snap/film away, share on socials, etc. All we ask is that you tag your photos with the #vanfest and #Van-O-Ween hash tag and tag @vanfestusa. Please also check out our Community Media page to share your photos and videos with us!Unfortunately, due to liability issues, drones are NOT allowed unless you're Part 107 licensed. It’s far too easy to seriously injure someone by crashing a drone into their face, and no one wants that. If you see any drones at Van-O-Ween, they’re flown by our licensed & insured media partners.Is smoking allowed?For tobacco - absolutely not. Cigarettes/cigars smell TERRIBLE and they're pretty gross. For the health and safety of everyone, Van-O-Ween is a tobacco-smoke-free event. If you must consume tobacco products, it must be smokeless (vape, dip, etc). If you use a vaporizer, please do so politely. If you dip, don't spit it on the ground. If you’re found smoking tobacco inside the venue, you’ll be asked to immediately stop; failure to do so will result in you being removed from the event. If you wish to smoke tobacco, please exit the venue on foot to do so, and please try to remain downwind.For weed, absolutely! Arizona is a legal state, and we suggest hitting up any number of dispensaries in the area. If you do light up, do so responsibly and make sure there are no children around. If someone asks you to smoke elsewhere, just be cool and oblige, okay?What are the COVID-19 policies at Van-O-Ween?While COVID has certainly abated, it’s still a small part of our lives. The past few years have also provided different levels of challenges to different people. We ask that you're open minded and respectful of other's medical needs and wishes as we navigate this odd post-COVID world we live in.Am I allowed to play music?Music will be allowed in the camping area at a responsible level, but be considerate and respectful of those near you. Music should not contain overly offensive language. Quiet hours in the camping area will be from 11pm to 7am, and will be enforced to ensure the peaceful enjoyment of others. We will have live music at the main stage most nights, so please be respectful of those musicians and do not play your own music during those performances.I am a professional builder and want to showcase my builds, how do I do that?All individuals/companies/dealerships who would like to solicit their vehicle building services should reach out to hello@vanfestusa.com to discuss vendor and sponsorship opportunities.If camping tickets sell out, where can I stay?Due to popularity, we expect the camping passes to sell out. We suggest you utilize apps like iOverlander or Sekr to find nearby places to safely and legally spend the night.What isn’t allowed?
This is not a comprehensive list – use your best judgment. We have the right to, at our discretion, admend, add, or remove anything from the list below. By attending, you agree to this.– Discriminative or divisive symbols, and inappropriate imagery.
- Political-fuel riffraff of any kind
– Weapons such as guns, knives, pepper spray/mace, tasers, etc. This includes off-duty law enforcement or concealed carry permit – guns are not allowed at VanFest.
– Drugs or drug paraphernalia. Respect local/state laws.
– Flammables such as fireworks, explosives, road flares, etc.What are the Terms and Conditions?
The Terms & Conditions can be found here.Don’t see your question?
Shoot us an email at hello@vanfestusa.com or fill out the form below!

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