Bugs on the Bayou

PHOTOGRAPHY BY : SHAWN BURKE @ IN THE LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

Spring and summer are a great time to go cruising in your hot rod or vintage car, and they’re also the perfect seasons to visit the many car shows happening in our area.

One of the best is Bugs on the Bayou, a Volkswagen‐only car show put on by Derek Henry, Steve Osborn, and their dedicated team of volunteers. This past May 1st through the 3rd marked their 11th anniversary show, and it did not disappoint.

Derek is a fantastic promoter, drawing more than 240 cars, with participants traveling from as far away as Oklahoma. Not only did the cars travel far, but many of them were among the most beautiful Volkswagens I’ve ever seen.

This three‐day event kicked off with an overnight camp‐out and a classic drive‐in movie. On the second day, there was a cruise to the beach, which providedstunning photo opportunities with the beautiful Gulf waters as a backdrop. That evening, everyone returned to the campsite for a live band concert. Day three was show day—and it absolutely delivered.

There were plenty of classic Bugs and air‐cooled vans, along with a strong showing of water‐cooled Volkswagens. As the saying goes, Volkswagen was the only thing Hitler got right— Volkswagen literally means the people’s car. Derek truly embraces that philosophy, by letting attendees vote for the Top 20 awards, also known as the People’s Choice. With more than 240 cars present, earning one of these awards was a big deal.

Additional awards are selected by Derek and his team, including Best Paint, Best Engine, and Longest Distance Traveled. And of course, there’s always the raffle, featuring great prizes that anyone can buy into.

Another important part of this show is reconnecting with old friends, meeting new ones, and seeing what everyone has been working on with their cars. Seeing so many great Volkswagens inspires owners with fresh ideas for their own builds. What I’ve learned from owning my own VW bug is that there’s really no right or wrong way to build your Volkswagen. Some prefer the showroom‐fresh look of the 1960s, others love the classic hippie style, and some go for the lowered California look—low and slow.

Many attendees are also inspired to find a Volkswagen of their own and become part of the VW community. If reading this has sparked your interest in checking out a VW show, the next big one in our area is hosted by the Emerald Coast Volkswagen Club on October 17th at Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola. Great job, Derek and Steve—you and your team continue to put on an outstanding event.