FYI: The Deep In The Forest event celebrated its 10th anniversary this year, attracting over 500 cars and nearly 5,000 visitors. Despite challenges, the event continues to thrive with a unique setting and vibrant atmosphere.
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### A Decade of Tief im Wald: The 10th Annual “Deep In The Forest” Event
Having missed last year’s Heritage show, I was eager to attend the 10th anniversary of Tief im Wald’s main event, “Deep In The Forest.” This landmark celebration went above and beyond, proving the show’s growth and popularity over the years. The festival, rooted in an idea born from a casual barbecue with the Custom Junkies car club in 2014, brought together over 500 cars and welcomed nearly 5,000 visitors to its fresh new location earlier this month.
### Origins and Evolution
The Tief im Wald event has come a long way since its humble beginnings. The inaugural gathering in 2014 was more of a friendly meet-up, but it quickly grew into something much larger and more significant in the automotive community. This year’s event not only marked a decade of car culture but also showcased its evolution into one of the most anticipated automotive gatherings.
### New Venue Amid Deforestation Crisis
Germany is currently battling a severe bark beetle crisis, leading to extensive deforestation. This environmental issue forced the Tief im Wald organizers to move the event from its traditional forest shooting range to the Oberhof biathlon stadium. Situated in a small town about 800 meters above sea level and surrounded by forest, the stadium proved to be an ideal yet slightly more urban venue. This shift ensured the event’s continuity while addressing ecological concerns.
### A Cozy Yet Electric Atmosphere
Deep in the Forest is distinctly different from other car shows due to its timing. Kicking off at 5 pm and continuing into the night with an after-party starting at 11 pm, the atmosphere is unique. The evening ambiance, enhanced with twinkling lights, neon signs, and diverse food trucks, transforms the event. What begins as an auto showcase turns into a festive, almost magical gathering as night falls.
### Highlights and Attractions
One of the standout features of Deep in the Forest is its lack of competitive awards. This no-prize approach fosters a community spirit where enthusiasts come to enjoy the cars and the camaraderie. Among the Japanese-themed decorations, several standout vehicles captured attention, including a meticulously modified Mazda RX-8, a street-ready Nissan S15, and an awe-inspiring FD3S Mazda RX-7. However, it was the Liberty Walk-kitted Ferrari 512TS that truly stole the show.
### Vibes and Entertainment
The Oberhof stadium’s stands provided perfect vantage points for both cars and spectators. Adding to the atmosphere, a DJ curated “Tief im Wald Radio,” blending live sets with pre-recorded commentary, ensuring that the energy remained high throughout the event.
### A Bright Future Ahead
As Tief im Wald celebrates its 10th anniversary, it is clear that the event has firmly established itself in the automotive scene. Despite the relocation and environmental hurdles, the spirit of the event remains vibrant and strong. Enthusiasts can look forward to many more anniversaries in the future, with the promise of continued innovation and community spirit.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
