Vanning

Vanning

Vanning is a subculture that emerged in the United States in the 1970s. It involves modifying and customizing vans to create unique and personalized vehicles. Vanning enthusiasts, known as "vanners," often gather at events and shows to showcase their vans and socialize with other like-minded individuals.

History

The roots of vanning can be traced back to the 1960s when the popularity of vans as recreational vehicles started to grow. However, it was in the 1970s that vanning truly became a cultural phenomenon. The release of movies like "Two-Lane Blacktop" and "Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry" featuring customized vans further fueled the trend.

Van Modifications

Vanners take great pride in customizing their vans to reflect their individual personalities and interests. Some common modifications include:

• Exterior paint jobs: Vanners often opt for vibrant and eye-catching paint schemes, ranging from psychedelic designs to airbrushed murals.
• Interior renovations: Vans are transformed into cozy living spaces with comfortable seating, beds, and storage compartments.
• Audio and visual systems: High-quality sound systems, televisions, and gaming consoles are commonly installed to enhance the entertainment experience.
• Custom lighting: LED lights and neon accents are popular choices for creating a unique ambiance inside the van.
• Performance enhancements: Vanners may modify the engine, suspension, and exhaust systems to improve the van's performance and handling.

Vanning Events

Vanning events provide vanners with the opportunity to showcase their customized vans and connect with others who share their passion. These events often feature various activities such as van shows, live music performances, games, and camping. Some well-known vanning events include:

• Van Nationals: An annual gathering of vanners from across the country, featuring van competitions, live entertainment, and vendor booths.
• Vanfest: A popular vanning event held in Australia, attracting vanners from around the world to showcase their vans and participate in various activities.
• Vantopia: A vanning event that takes place in different locations each year, offering vanners the chance to explore new areas while enjoying the company of fellow enthusiasts.

Vanning Subculture

Vanning has developed into a vibrant subculture with its own unique style and sense of community. Vanners often form clubs or join existing ones to connect with like-minded individuals. These clubs organize regular meetups, cruises, and other social events to foster camaraderie among members.

Legacy

While the popularity of vanning declined in the 1980s, the subculture continues to thrive today, albeit on a smaller scale. Vanning enthusiasts still gather at events and shows to celebrate their shared love for customized vans. The influence of vanning can also be seen in modern-day van life and the tiny house movement, where individuals convert vans into mobile homes.

See Also

• Custom Car
• Van Life
• Recreational Vehicle