HO26 — 9th International Oldtimer VW Meeting Hessisch Oldendorf

Four Decades of VW Veteran Culture

The International Oldtimer VW Meeting in Hessisch Oldendorf has been organized by Volkswagen Veteranen Hessisch Oldendorf e.V. since 1985. What began as a regional club meeting has evolved over the decades into one of the most important events worldwide for air-cooled Volkswagens. Participants travel from the USA, Japan, Australia, Brazil, Scandinavia, and all over Europe. 2026 will celebrate the ninth edition (following a rhythm of approximately every three to four years).

Which Vehicles Are Featured

The event is strictly limited to air-cooled Volkswagens, meaning models produced in VW factories up to 1985. The focus is on the Beetle in all its variants (Standard, Export, Cabrio, 1303, Mexico models), the T1 Bus (Splitscreen, 1950–1967), the T2 (Bay Window, 1967–1979), the Karmann Ghia Coupé and Cabrio, the Type 3 (1500/1600 as Variant, Notchback, Fastback), as well as special models like the Kübelwagen, Schwimmwagen, and Type 4. The exhibited vehicles span a range from original condition and restoration projects to individual custom cars in the California style.

Program Wednesday to Sunday

The preliminary program includes setup and the start of camping on Wednesday, June 24th. The official main program begins on Thursday, June 25th: parts market, exhibition areas for different model groups, guided tours through the Weserbergland region, live music in the festival tent, show competitions for the most beautiful vehicles, Concours d'Élégance, and the famous custom show. Friday, June 26th, and Saturday, June 27th, mark the peak of the meeting, which concludes on Sunday, June 28th, with award ceremonies and departure.

Camping as Part of the Experience

Many participants arrive in their historic Buses and camp directly on the festival grounds. Campfire atmosphere, shared barbecues, mutual help with repairs, and exchange about restorations characterize the mood. The meeting is not primarily a competition but an international family celebration of the air-cooled scene.

Visitors Welcome, Free Admission

While registration for participating vehicles closed months in advance (the event has been sold out for years), visitors with normal cars can enter the grounds free of charge and admire the vehicles. Families, VW enthusiasts, and day guests from the entire Weserbergland region are welcome.

Hessisch Oldendorf as the Venue

Hessisch Oldendorf is a small town in the Hameln-Pyrmont district, located in the Weser valley between the Wesergebirge and Süntel hills. Its selection as the venue is due to the local club and has been part of the local identity for decades. During the festival days, the town's population swells dramatically, and hotels, guesthouses, and private rooms in the surrounding area are fully booked.