On July 15, 2024, the Bugs, Bunnies, and Buses Volkswagen car club hosted one of their many remarkable events, the Die Volksmesse Show n’ Swap. This show, a delightful mix of a swap meet and a show-and-shine, featured Volkswagen memorabilia and vintage Volkswagen automobiles spread throughout the Cambrian Heights Community Centre field. The event also welcomed a special guest who had traveled tens of thousands of kilometers during their Pan-America Highway trek.

A few of the attending vehicles of the Show n' Swap

The Bugs, Bunnies, and Buses car club is a dedicated group of Volkswagen enthusiasts, organizing numerous events each season. Their goal is to gather as many enthusiasts as possible to showcase both air-cooled and water-cooled German icons alongside dozens of other vehicles.

A few of the attending Volkswagen's of the Show n' Swap

Though the Die Volksmesse Show n’ Swap was a smaller event, it was filled with light-hearted fun and high spirits. Buses showcased their camping setups, and Beetles appeared in various styles, reflecting the diverse enthusiast market within the community.

Some of the Beetle's on display

Among the unique Volkswagens on display, one vehicle stood out: a 1982 Volkswagen Kombi that had traveled from Ushuaia, Argentina, on its way to Alaska, traversing the length of the Americas. After years of travel, the owners arrived in Calgary, Alberta, just in time to join the show, creating a memorable moment for all attendees.

The 1982 Volkswagen Kombi that visited from Argentina

The Bugs, Bunnies, and Buses Die Volksmesse event was a resounding success. Despite being one of the smaller events of the season, it featured an array of great cars and amazing people, including one traveler who had journeyed across the Americas to share their story.

 Some of the Buses on display

Until the next time I see you guys, get wrenching, get driving, and keep these classics alive!

- Kyle Hanger of Searching for Classics