Celebrate the Icon: Why June 22nd is the International Day of the VW Beetle!
The Volkswagen Beetle: a car that’s more than just metal and mechanics. It’s a symbol of freedom, innovation, and a quirky charm that has captured hearts worldwide for generations. But did you know this automotive legend has its very own international day of recognition? Mark your calendars for June 22nd, the International Day of the VW Beetle! Join us as we explore the fascinating history behind this special day and how you can celebrate with us at the Ferdinand Porsche Erlebniswelten fahr(T)raum.
Why June 22nd? The History Behind the Celebration
The choice of June 22nd is no coincidence. It holds deep historical significance, tracing back to the very genesis of this iconic car. Since 1995, millions of VW Beetle fans have celebrated the popular VW Beetle on the 22nd of June. This day was initiated by Alexander Gromow, an expert of the VW scene and cofounder of the Brazilian magazine Fusca Clube Brazil. Supported by Dr. Bernd Wiersch, Curator of the car museum Volkswagen in Wolfsburg, and Heinz Willy Lottermann, cofounder of the Bad Camberg-VW-Meeting, this day was proclaimed at the 5th International VW Meeting in Bad Camberg. This event is considered to be one of the most important meetings of VW veterans and special Beetles.
The date for the “Worldwide Day of the VW Beetle” was not randomly selected: On June 22, 1934, a landmark contract was signed between the Reichsverband of the Automotive Industry (German Association of the Automotive Industry) and the brilliant engineer, Ferdinand Porsche. This agreement commissioned Porsche to design and develop the „people’s car” – the Volkswagen – laying the groundwork for the Beetle “Bug” we know and love.
The Enduring Legacy of the VW Beetle
From its practical origins to becoming a pop culture icon, the VW Beetle has a story unlike any other. Its distinctive shape is recognized globally, and its impact on automotive history is undeniable. This day is a tribute to:
- Ferdinand Porsche’s Vision: Celebrating the engineering genius that brought an affordable, reliable car to the masses.
- Global Community: Acknowledging the millions of owners and enthusiasts who have formed a passionate worldwide community around the Beetle.
- Timeless Design: Recognizing a design that has transcended decades, remaining stylish and beloved.
Celebrate with Us at fahr(T)raum!
What better place to celebrate the legacy of Ferdinand Porsche and the VW Beetle than at the Ferdinand Porsche Erlebniswelten fahr(T)raum in Mattsee? We’re passionate about automotive history and the genius behind it.
Naturally, the likable and well-known Volkswagen is also commemorated at the Ferdinand Porsche Erlebniswelten fahr(T)raum in Mattsee near Salzburg. Next to the exhibited true to the original KdF car (model 1942), Brezel Käfer (model 1952) and Mexico Käfer 1200L (model 1972), and other air-cooled VW Beetle models. Immerse yourself in the world of Ferdinand Porsche and see stunning examples of automotive history up close. Experience automotive history firsthand at fahr(T)raum.
Sources
Internationaler Käfertag, http://www.vw-kaeferclub.com/news/kaefernews/internationaler-kaefertag.html
Kuriose-Feiertage https://www.kuriose-feiertage.de/welttag-des-vw-kaefers/
Bild © Ludvigsen, Vorführung einiger Prototypen des Käfers für die internationale Presse im Februar 1939. Anlässlich der Berliner Automobilausstellung unter der Brücke in Dessau.
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