FYI: Experience the ultimate gathering of stance enthusiasts in Northern Europe at Fitted Fest 2024 in Lahti, Finland.
A Journey to Lahti: Fitted Fest 2024 – Northern Europe’s Premier Stance Show
Last weekend, I embarked on an exciting trip to Lahti, Finland – a charming city that hosted the much-anticipated Fitted Fest 2024. My journey began with a brisk ferry ride from Tallinn, Estonia, followed by a swift drive from Helsinki. Upon arriving at the picturesque port of Lahti, I was eager to dive into Northern Europe’s best stance show.
Fitted Fest Evolution: From Inception to Expansion
Fitted Fest, masterminded by CDLC.CO founders Niko Aaltonen and Antti Eskeli, has been a staple on my car show calendar since its inception. The event had its first run as a two-day celebration this year, marking a significant evolution from previous editions.
Stunning Locations and Diverse Automotive Displays
The show took place at the breathtaking Sibelius Concert Hall and alongside the serene Vesijärvi harbour. With over 250 cars participating from Finland, Sweden, Estonia, and more, the excitement was tangible.
Inside the concert hall, around 20 meticulously selected vehicles took center stage, their presence accentuated by the sophisticated wooden architecture. Amongst the standout displays was a wild VW Bus that we’ll explore further in an upcoming feature.
Outdoor Extravaganza: A Diverse Array of Vehicles
The car park outside was a hive of activity with space allocated for approximately 200 vehicles. The variety was astounding, ranging from sleek European models to classic American lowriders and race cars. One particular highlight was an R32 Nissan Skyline with an unconventional twist – a Mercedes-Benz turbo diesel engine, which remains shrouded in mystery until Allen’s full feature is revealed.
Electric Vehicles Make a Statement
Electric vehicles also made a significant impression. A Tesla Model 3, outfitted with air ride and SSR wheels, stood out amid the mostly 90s enthusiast cars. Alongside it, a modified Volkswagen ID.4 drew significant attention, though the popular VW ID. Buzz was notably absent from this year’s event.
Spectacular Custom Cars and Unique Modifications
The creativity and quality of the custom cars were phenomenal. Four MkIV Toyota Supras, each uniquely modified, showcased the diverse approaches to customization. Additionally, a BMW E36, deceptively resembling a Nissan Silvia S13, highlighted the ingenuity of the participants.
Our friends from Lowtown Workshop in Estonia displayed an array of cars featuring both static suspension and airbag setups, all of which had driven to the event, enhancing the sense of community and shared passion.
Highlight of the Show: 1992 Lexus LS 400
A notable winner at Fitted Fest 2024 was Andžej Kuldoš’s meticulously modified 1992 Lexus LS 400, which garnered the "People’s Choice" award. This VIP-style build, equipped with a rare late ’90s Evolution Total Systems V1 body kit, three-piece Work Carving Head 40 wheels with Spinner Type 1 center caps, and a jaw-dropping custom rear light setup, stood out for its blend of classic JDM aesthetics and bespoke elements. The chrome door handles made from shredded US dollar bills, which glow in the dark, added an unexpected twist.
Atmosphere and Future Prospects
The vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere at Fitted Fest drew comparisons to Ultrace, though with a distinct, laid-back vibe underscored by Finnish hip-hop beats. The sense of camaraderie and passion among attendees was infectious, making it a memorable weekend.
Lahti has once again set a remarkable standard for custom car shows, leaving us eagerly anticipating what Fitted Fest 2025 will bring. With its steady evolution and high bar for creativity, Fitted Fest continues to inspire and captivate the European custom car scene.
Donald Smith
Editor of Automotive.fyi
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