9th International Volkswagen Vintage Vehicle Meet in Hessisch Oldendorf 2026 – known among fans simply as HO26
Around 900 historic VW vehicles are expected at this "Mecca for vintage VW enthusiasts and chrome fans."
June 25–28, 2026 – Volkswagen Vintage Vehicle Meet in Hessisch Oldendorf, Lower Saxony (Hameln-Pyrmont district) (ENGLISH, ITALIANO, FRANÇAIS, DEUTSCH, NEDERLANDS)
The town of Hessisch Oldendorf in Lower Saxony (Hameln-Pyrmont district) is buzzing with anticipation as the *Käferfreunde* (Volkswagen Veteranen Hessisch Oldendorf e.V.)—a group of enthusiasts working entirely on a voluntary basis—prepare for this gathering of Beetle lovers. The goal is to preserve the history and artifacts—namely, the vintage classic Volkswagens themselves. Since the first VW vintage meet in 1996, Hessisch Oldendorf has been a pilgrimage site for Beetle enthusiasts from all over the world every four years. They demonstrate that it is not just the cars, but the hearts of the collectors, that preserve the legacy of Volkswagen's many early models. Around 900 historic VW vehicles are expected at this "Mecca for all vintage car and chrome fans." Look forward to seeing beautiful "old" VW Beetles, Buses (Bullis), Kübelwagens, and Karmann-Ghias. Add the Brazilian VW SP2 to the mix, and the famous old town transforms into a vast open-air museum along the Weser River. In addition to the VW meet, visitors and enthusiasts can look forward to a swap meet and a scenic drive through the Weser Uplands (Weserbergland). Legends will also prove their ability to float—specifically the Schwimmwagens, which will carry passengers across the Weser River for a good cause; the Großenwieden ferry landing will be a prime spot for photographers.
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| Mit dem Käfer Cabrio auf nach HO26 und Freunde treffen, Foto: Helga Waess (Pressfotoarchiv) |
VW Enthusiasts Look Forward to “HO26”
VW enthusiasts prick up their ears at the abbreviation “HO.” The small town of Hessisch Oldendorf is located in northwestern Lower Saxony. From June 25 to 28, 2026, fans and drivers of vintage VW vehicles will gather there.
Incidentally, the famous Grundmann VW Collection is also located in HO!
“Hessisch Oldendorf
International Vintage Volkswagen Show”
When? Thursday, June 25, 2026 to Sunday, June 28, 2026
Pre-event program
From Wednesday, June 24, 2026
From 4:00 PM: Arrival of the first participants at the Grundmann Museum
Main program
Thursday, June 25:
2:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Registration and information at the event office (Weserstraße 6, 31840 Hessisch Oldendorf)
Thursday, June 25: From 2:00 PM: Setup for the parts market (exhibitors only)
From 4:00 PM: Arrival of the BBT convoy from Belgium
Friday, June 26, 2026
- Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM: Registration and information at the event office (Weserstraße 6, 31840 Hessisch Oldendorf)
- From 9:00 AM: Vehicle lineup in the center of Hessisch Oldendorf
- From 10:00 AM: Swap meet at the estate courtyard (Gutshof)
- From 12:00 PM: Start of the *Schwimmwagen* (amphibious vehicles) heading toward Hameln; approx. 2:00 PM entry into the Weser River, followed by a trip along the river to the Großenwieden ferry landing
- From 3:00 PM: Start of the scenic tour through the Weser Uplands (Weserbergland)
- Approx. 4:00 PM: Arrival of the *Schwimmwagen* at the Großenwieden ferry landing; *Schwimmwagen* rides for charity
- From 6:00 PM: Evening party in the town center
Saturday, June 27, 2026
- 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM: Registration and information at the event office (Weserstraße 6, 31840 Hessisch Oldendorf)
- From 9:00 AM: Vehicle exhibition in the town center, featuring a special Volkswagen SP2 showcase
- From 10:00 AM: Parts market at the estate courtyard (Gutshof)
- From 6:00 PM: Evening party in the town center
- From 7:00 PM: Evening event "Brazilian Night" (SORRY, SOLD OUT!) in the courtyard of the Hessisch Oldendorf Town Hall, featuring... Buffet, welcome for participants, and party!
Sunday: June 28, 2026
- From 9:00 AM: Vehicle display in the town center
- 12:00 PM: Trophy presentation in the town center
- Farewell to participants
- 6:00 PM: Camping area closes
Location:
Historic town center, 31840 Hessisch Oldendorf
Tip:
Camping area opens Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at 12:00 PM – €25 per person per night
The town of Hessisch Oldendorf is making well-maintained green spaces and sports grounds available for camping: several sports fields and additional lawn areas
GPS: Horstweg 24, 31840 Hessisch Oldendorf
