The 67th Annual Airstream Club International Rally concluded in Sedalia, Missouri, with record attendance and philanthropic achievements, generating an estimated $1.75 million in local economic impact.
The event, which took place from October 5-10, marked a significant milestone as it was the first rally held in the fall season, attracting 2,289 Airstream enthusiasts from around the globe.
Participants arrived with 1,195 Airstream trailers at the Missouri State Fairgrounds, where they engaged in a week of activities that celebrated their shared passion for the Airstream lifestyle.
The rally commenced with a parade featuring over 60 vintage Airstreams, each more than 25 years old, a tradition that highlights the club’s rich history. Throughout the five-day event, attendees participated in various educational sessions, an exhibitor fair, art shows, daily sports, and social events.
A core principle of Airstream Club International members is to leave a positive impact wherever they travel. This year, the club members demonstrated this ethos by contributing to local charities. The WBCCI Foundation, the club’s charitable arm, awarded four grants to support projects aligned with the Airstream lifestyle, including maintenance for the Katy Trail Depot and improvements in national parks.
Rally attendees further bolstered these efforts by raising $21,311.15 for the Bothwell Foundation, aiding cancer services and patient assistance initiatives through various fundraising activities. In total, the contributions from the foundation and rally participants amounted to $46,561.15, underscoring the club’s commitment to community support.
In response to Hurricane Helene’s impact on club members and campgrounds, attendees rallied together, raising over $26,000 to assist with clean-up and recovery efforts.
Generosity extended beyond financial contributions, as rally participants donated 164 pints of blood during the third annual Airstream Club International Rally Blood Drive. Additionally, ACI Future Streamers, the club’s youth group, collected 210 pounds of aluminum tabs for the Ronald McDonald House, surpassing previous collections and highlighting the spirit of service among younger members.
Eric McHenry, the president of Airstream Club International, emphasized the club’s community-oriented approach, stating, “You’d be hard-pressed to find a more welcoming and generous community than Airstream Club International.”
Looking ahead, preparations are underway for the 2025 Airstream Club International Rally, scheduled to take place in York, Pennsylvania, from August 23-28, 2025. Anticipation is high, and registration opens on October 30, at 1:00 PM EDT.
Featured image by Airstream Club International