If you’ve ever wanted to see a lot of bugs in one place — VW Bugs, that is — the Florida Bug Jam is the place to do it.
This year’s 29th annual Florida Bug Jam is set for Nov. 11 and Nov. 12 at the Pasco County Fairgrounds.
Vendors of new parts, swap items and food are encouraged to set up on the evening of Nov. 10 or early Nov. 11.
Spectators will be admitted on both Nov. 11 and Nov. 12, according to event organizers.
Show Cars are encouraged to pre-park on Saturday.
Parking on Saturday offers the best chance to get a desired spot for those wishing to park with their club, or friends, or to show off their VW to the Saturday spectators.
The car show and judging is on Nov. 12.
On Nov. 11, activities and events will be occurring throughout the day.
The Poker Run will kick off the weekend with a scenic route through the back roads and rolling hills of Pasco County, including stops at some local hot spots along the way.
Cash prizes will be award for best and worst hands.
The Poker Run will leave the fairgrounds between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., and will return by 2 p.m.
The traditional “VW Parade” is set for Nov. 11 at 2 p.m., with an escort into historic downtown Dade City where the VW Cruise-In Party is scheduled from 2:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Highlights for the party will include live music and craft beers.
Another event, called Bugs on the Track, is set for Nov. 11, from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. It involves a dune style, off-road course, incorporating obstacles and rhythm sections. It is suited for drivers of any skill level.
Throughout the day on Nov. 11, there will be live music and entertainment on the main stage.
If you enjoy performing before a crowd, you can take advantage of an open mic, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Featured bands will be hitting the stage at 4 p.m.
Food vendors and Big Storm Brewery will be at the event all weekend.
Another new element of this year’s event will be the Southeastern Baywindow Rally, slated for Nov. 11.
The main day for the Southeast’s largest VW Car Show and Swap Meet is on Nov. 12, when the VWs will be judged. There will be scores of vendors, live entertainment and various activities.
29th annual Florida Bug Jam
Where: Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City
When: Nov. 11, 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. Nov. 12, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Cost: $10 per day or $15 both days; children 10 and under are free with a can of food to benefit a food bank; parking is $5
Details: Scores of VW Bugs, live entertainment, new parts, swap items, food and activities.
Info: Visit FloridaBugJam.com, or call (352) 588-4697.
Published November 8, 2017
