8 AUGUST 2024
When the crisp autumn air begins to settle in and the leaves start to turn, for motorsports enthusiasts, there's one event that stands out on the calendar: the Hay Days Snowmobile Show. Held annually in Minnesota, this event is more than just a snowmobile show—it's a celebration of the motorsports industry and the passionate community that fuels it.
A Legacy of Excitement
The Hay Days Snowmobile Show, often dubbed "The Official Start of Winter," has been a staple in the motorsports calendar for over half a century. What began in 1966 as a small gathering of snowmobile racers and fans has grown into the largest snowmobile event in the world, drawing tens of thousands of visitors from across the globe. For many, it's not just an event—it's a pilgrimage.
At its core, Hay Days is about snowmobiling, but it's also a showcase for the entire motorsports industry. From dirt bikes and ATVs to the latest snowmobile models and aftermarket innovations, Hay Days is a one-stop shop for anyone who loves speed, power, and the thrill of the ride.
The Magic of the Motorsports Industry Spirit
What makes Hay Days truly special is the spirit of the motorsports community. There's a unique energy that fills the air, a blend of camaraderie, competition, and shared passion that’s hard to find elsewhere. It's a place where families come together, where lifelong friendships are formed, and where memories are made that last a lifetime.
The motorsports industry is built on innovation and pushing the limits, and Hay Days is the perfect embodiment of this ethos. Each year, manufacturers and enthusiasts alike bring their latest creations to the show, from cutting-edge snowmobiles to custom-built machines that defy convention. Walking through the vendor booths, you're likely to find everything from performance parts and gear to the latest in motorsports technology.
But beyond the machines, it's the people who make Hay Days magical. The event is a melting pot of personalities, from seasoned racers and engineers to newcomers experiencing the thrill of motorsports for the first time. Everyone is united by a shared love for the sport, and that collective passion is palpable.
Racing, Demos, and Thrills
Of course, no motorsports event would be complete without some high-octane action, and Hay Days delivers in spades. The event features a variety of racing competitions, from snowmobile drag races to ATV and dirt bike events. These races are a spectacle, showcasing the skill and bravery of the riders as they push their machines to the limit.
In addition to the races, Hay Days offers a wide range of demos and exhibitions. Whether it's freestyle snowmobile tricks, ATV stunt shows, or product demonstrations, there's always something happening to keep the adrenaline pumping.
A Community Like No Other
What sets the motorsports industry apart is the sense of community that it fosters, and Hay Days is the ultimate celebration of this community. The event is a chance for fans and professionals alike to come together, share their stories, and celebrate their love for the sport. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a curious newcomer, you're welcomed with open arms.
For many attendees, Hay Days is more than just a weekend event—it's a tradition. It's a chance to reconnect with old friends, meet new ones, and be a part of something larger than themselves. The sense of belonging that the motorsports community provides is truly special, and it's what keeps people coming back year after year.
Our Swedish Connection To The Event
I sat down with TOBE Founder Tomas Berntsson to talk to him about his connection to the event. Here is what he had to say.
1. What is Hay Days to you?
To me and probably most others in this industry Hay Days mark the start of the new season, which in itself is super exciting. But as a Swede and initially watching Hay Days from the other side of the pond is used to add even more excitement as this was where our snowmobile magazines went to report on the new race sleds and all the late (or early I guess?) season releases. Hay Days was where everything new was presented.
2. When was the first time you went to Hay Days? What did you first think?
My first time at Hay Days was in 2012 and I went together with my brother/best snowmobiling buddy. We went as visitors and got to experience the whole thing with late night parties, bad decisions at the swap meet and tons of really nice fellow snowmobilers from all over the world.
3. Is this event important for the industry? Why?
I think it is important but perhaps in a different way today than in the beginning. Some of the initial excitement over all the new releases and new technology is gone with everything being launched online instead. But as the first major industry event of the season and a melting pot of snowmobilers from all over the world getting together for a huge party I think it is as relevant as ever.
4. What's the strangest experience you ever had at Hay Days?
That’s honestly a tough one when you stay in a pop-up city of some 40,000 fellow redneck snowmobilers in a field.
5. What is a connection you have made there that has lasted?
One of the connections I made drinking beer under a tarp in the rain later went on to shape TOBE and our identity. Plus I made a great friend in Jon Miller at Backcountry United. Huge shoutout to him and the work he’s done for the industry.
6. What do you enjoy most about Hay Days?
Sharing the excitement over the upcoming season with so many friendly snowmobilers from all over.
7. What is a unique thing that TOBE brings to the snowmobile industry?
We bring a different flavor of fashion and ideas about outdoor equipment that I think is important to a sport as demanding as snowmobiling is.
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