Destination Defender is a weekend festival designed for Defender owners and enthusiasts. This year’s event will feature curated outdoor adventure and sports activities, musical performances, driving experiences, glamping, workshops and an evening to honor this year’s Defender Service Award winners.
OFF-ROAD ADVENTURES
Embrace the impossible with the Defender Drive Experience, where you’ll face challenges and obstacles similar to those from this year’s Defender Trophy Competitors. Sharpen your expedition, recovery, and safety skills through driving workshops led by legendary former Camel Trophy competitors. End the day putting your skills to the test with an excursion through the trail network in your Defender.
THE DEFENDER LIFESTYLE
Do the exceptional. Choose from high intensity fitness experiences, daily wellness activities or spa treatments that will make you ready to achieve more. Seek adventure while on Iron Horse Ranch with activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, skeet shooting or fishing alongside industry experts. And enjoy the best of Texas’ acclaimed food truck scene.
MUSICAL PERFORMANCES
No festival is complete without live music, so we’re gathering a lineup of artists for mainstage performances throughout the weekend and intimate sets by the fire.
CAMPING
Embrace the outdoors while camping available at Iron Horse Ranch. Be one with nature while being steps away from the heart of the event. Rent a camp essentials package if you’re flying in or have limited gear.
PREMIUM GUEST ROOMS
For those who prefer more traditional accommodations, onsite rooms offer queen and double with bunk bed configurations for guests and families up to six.
GLAMPING
Camping meets modern luxury with elevated amenities in the great outdoors. Enjoy indoor bathrooms and showers and your own pre-pitched tent.
FRIDAY OR SUNDAY PASS
Experience Destination Defender with daytime access to the event on Friday, November 10 or Sunday, November 12, beginning at 9 AM. Your one-day pass includes participation in all activities until close. Onsite accommodations or camping are not available to single-day pass holders.
CELEBRATING THE DEFENDER SERVICE AWARDS PRESENTED BY CHASE
Honoring heroes that are as tough as the Defender. On November 11, we’re also announcing the six winners of the 2023 Defender Service Awards presented by Chase. This program celebrates organizations across the U.S. and Canada who are making a difference in their communities. Winners will receive a customized Defender 130 vehicle and $25,000 to further their organization’s efforts. The gala is a separate ticket to your Destination Defender entry.
SEE YOU OUT THERE
We’re thrilled for you to experience everything we have planned for Destination Defender, around the grounds, on-stage and especially off-road.
FAQs
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What is Destination Defender?
Destination Defender is a weekend festival designed for Defender vehicle owners, adventure enthusiasts, and all who share a passion for the great outdoors. The weekend includes curated outdoor lifestyle activities, Defender drive experiences, live musical performances, camping and glamping, workshops, vehicle displays, outdoor sports, premium food and beverage options, and more!
The event is predominantly outdoors. Some activities may include some level of shelter and coverage from weather elements. Otherwise, the event grounds will be open and exposed to the elements. We recommend you bring weather appropriate layers if you plan to experience Destination Defender outside of the dinner event.
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Where is Destination Defender?
Destination Defender is located at Iron Horse Ranch, 20690 PR 4005, Somerville, TX 77879
Address for GPS or map apps: 20690 PR 4005, Somerville, TX 77879
GPS Coordinates: 30.38446721149075, -96.40308555169202
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by event personnel who will direct you to the appropriate registration and parking areas.
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How do I attend Destination Defender?
Please click here to purchase tickets or contact your local authorized Land Rover Retailer for more information.
Ticket options:
Weekend Pass: $195
• Access to festival grounds on Friday, November 10, Saturday, November 11, and Sunday, November 12
• Includes participation in all daytime and evening festival activities
• Entry and/or reentry is permitted from 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM on Friday and Saturday, and from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM on Sunday
• Onsite lodging options are available for an additional fee
• If no onsite lodging accommodations have been arranged, weekend pass holders must exit the property by 10:00 PM on Friday and Saturday, and 6:00 PM on Sunday.
Friday Pass: $75
• Access to festival grounds on Friday, November 10 beginning at 9:00 AM and ending at 10:00 PM
• Entry and/or reentry is permitted between 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Single-day pass holders will not be permitted to remain onsite for overnight accommodations or events
Saturday Pass: $95
• Access to festival grounds on Saturday, November 11 beginning at 9:00 AM and ending at 10:00 PM
• Entry and/or reentry is permitted between 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Single-day pass holders will not be permitted to remain onsite for overnight accommodations or events
Sunday Pass: $75
• Access to festival grounds on Sunday, November 12 beginning at 9:00 AM and ending at 6:00 PM
• Entry and/or reentry is permitted from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Children ages 12 and under can attend complimentary when accompanied by an adult ticket holder, however all guests of all ages must be registered.
Lodging options are available onsite for additional fees, and must be accompanied by a weekend pass.
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What is the arrival process for Destination Defender?
Upon arrival to Iron Horse Ranch, please have your registration confirmation ready. Check in staff will greet guests to assist with completing registration and activate individual smart bands coded to your personalized registration details for access into the event and other access points such as camping, glamping, or pre-registered activities. Guests will then be directed to their respective parking area depending on their ticket type and/or lodging accommodations.
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What onsite activations can I expect?
The weekend includes curated outdoor lifestyle activities, Defender drive experiences, live musical performances, camping, glamping, outdoor sports, fitness and wellness activities, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, workshops and more.
Destination Defender is a true culmination of all things Defender:
• Throughout the weekend, guests will be able to browse a variety of vehicles on display throughout the event grounds, ranging from the current Defender brand lineup, special editions, and classic Land Rover vehicles.
• Celebrate Defender TRĕK, a competition consisting of Land Rover Retailer teams from the U.S. and Canada, who go head-to-head, facing a series of challenges that put their off-road abilities and analytical skills to the test. The top teams will join us for a commencement ceremony on Friday evening, awarding this year’s winning team. Additionally, be sure to check out this year’s TRĕK village to see these customized vehicles on display!
• Experience the adventurous spirit of Defender Trophy! Throughout the Defender Drive Experience, guests will have the opportunity to challenge their own skills, facing similar challenges to those of this year’s Defender Trophy competitors. There will be workshops and fireside chats led by former Camel Trophy competitors where guests can sharpen their expedition, recovery, and safety skills. Defender Trophy Edition vehicles will be available for guest use on the drive experience trails on a limited basis.
• On Saturday night, the winners of this year’s Defender Service Awards presented by Chase will be announced during a private fundraising dinner on the grounds of Destination Defender. The Defender Service Awards Winner’s Announcement Celebration Dinner commemorates organizations across the U.S. and Canada who are making a difference in their community. Tables available for sponsorship only, please contact our concierge at info@destinationdefenderusa.com for further assistance. Learn more about the great things that this year’s finalists are doing within their communities during a Defender Service Awards finalist panel.
Please check back for a full schedule of events and activations closer to the event date.
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Where do I park?
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by event staff who will help you check in and allocate the access pass you registered for. You will be directed to the appropriate parking location depending on the type of pass and/or lodging option you have selected.
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What is the Defender Service Awards Winner’s Announcement Celebration Dinner?
An initiative honoring U.S. and Canadian organizations that make a difference in their communities with a grand prize of a customized Defender 130 vehicle, along with monetary prizes to further empower their efforts.
Winners will be announced at the celebration event on Saturday evening, November 11, at Iron Horse Ranch. This event is not open to all guests of Destination Defender, and will require an upgraded ticket for entry.
Categories include:
Animal, wildlife & marine mammal welfare award – presented by Animal Planet
Community services award – presented by Ei3
Search, rescue & emergency support services award – presented by Pelican
Veteran & civil servant outreach award – presented by Hearts & Science
Outdoor accessibility & education award – presented by Outside Interactive, Inc.
Defender service awards honorees – returning finalists
For more information on the Defender Service Awards, please click here.
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How do I purchase a table for the Defender Service Awards Winner’s Announcement Celebration Dinner?
If you are interested in becoming an event sponsor or purchasing a table for the Defender Service Awards Winner’s Announcement Celebration Dinner, please contact our concierge at info@destinationdefenderusa.com for further assistance.
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Is this event family-friendly?
Yes, Destination Defender is a family-friendly event for Defender enthusiasts of all ages! Children ages 12 and under can attend complimentary when accompanied by an adult ticket holder. All guests must be registered for access to the event site.
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What weather can I expect?
November temperatures in Somerville average from the low 70’s (F) during the day to the low to mid 40’s at night. It is suggested that you wear layers and bring warmer clothing and blankets or sleeping bags for sleeping at night. Storms are always a possibility, so come prepared. It is recommended that you bring rainflies for tents. You should always stake your tents in case of wind.
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Will food be sold at the festival?
Yes, a variety of food and beverage options will be sold onsite throughout the event, including a variety of local Texas premium food trucks. Vegan, Vegetarian, and Gluten-Free options will be available.
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When can we arrive? Is there early entry?
There will be no early entry into Destination Defender.
The gates open on Friday, November 10 at 9:00 AM Central Time (CT), for weekend pass holders. Single-day pass holders are permitted to enter the event on the day indicated on their ticket (Friday, Saturday, or Sunday) from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM CT. Gates close for entry at 9:00 PM CT on Friday and Saturday and 4:00 PM on Sunday.
Friday and Saturday pass holders, or weekend pass holders without onsite lodging accommodations, are to exit the event grounds by 10:00 PM. Sunday pass holders are to exit the event grounds by 6:00 PM.
For those who have purchased camping, glamping, or onsite lodging, entry will begin at 9:00 AM on Friday, November 10. The check in window is open from 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM CT daily. If you arrive after 9:00 PM, you will be unable to enter the event site until 9:00 AM the following day.
All guests and belongings must be cleared from the property by 6:00 PM on Sunday, November 12.
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Where can I stay if I prefer not to camp or glamp onsite?
There are hotels and rental accommodations available in the local area, including nearby College Station and Brenham.
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Can I bring my pets?
Pets are welcome on event grounds and at some outdoor activities and must always remain on a leash. You are responsible for the behavior of your pets. Please follow kind pet-parent etiquette. Pick up after your animals, and keep away from other people or other pets, unless permission is granted. Pets are not allowed in indoor dining areas or indoor lodging accommodations at any time, with the exception of certified Service Dogs. Pets who are aggressive or exhibit threatening behavior towards people or other animals will not be tolerated. Security reserves the right to remove any pets or humans from the property that are dangerous or a hinderance to the enjoyment of other guests or campers.
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Are the grounds accessible for guests with disabilities?
We strive to host inclusive and accessible events. Please be advised that the event takes place on a property with natural, uneven terrain, and conditions may change quickly with the weather and other factors. We encourage attendees with mobility impairments to use wheelchairs or scooters that are designed specifically for the outdoors and rugged terrain. There will be an ADA accessible restroom and accessible ramp entrances to primary areas of the property. Please contact our event concierge at info@destinationdefenderusa.com for accessibility information and requests.
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What if I need medical assistance or have an emergency onsite?
There will be emergency medical services onsite throughout the entire event. The location of these services, along with other guest support services, can be found on the event map once released.
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Do you offer military discounts?
Contact your local retailer for more information on discounted ticket options.
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What vehicles are allowed on the Defender Drive Experience?
All personal vehicles participating in the Defender Drive Experience will require inspection and approval by a certified Land Rover instructor for suitability and safety. Only Land Rover vehicles will be permitted on the adventure trails. There will be certain areas of the drive experience that are limited to Defender vehicles only. Drivers must be 21 years of age or older with a valid driver’s license and will be required to complete a drive waiver. Drive instructors reserve the right to deny any vehicle entry onto the Defender Drive Experience for any reason.
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Do you provide vehicles to use on the Defender Drive Experience?
Yes, there will be instructor-led Defender Drive Experiences available. Vehicles will be available for guest use on the drive experience trails on a limited basis. Drivers must be 21 years of age or older with a valid driver’s license and will be required to complete a drive waiver.
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What is the refund policy for Destination Defender?
All tickets purchased to Destination Defender are non-refundable. Destination Defender is a rain-or-shine event. Refunds are not provided under most circumstances including rescheduling of the event dates, change of venue, weather, artist or activity cancelations from the lineup, or other acts of God.
Rescheduling of Event
If the event needs to be rescheduled for any reason, your ticket shall be made valid for the rescheduled dates and shall remain non-refundable. In the case of a complete festival cancellation, we will contact you with further information on refund options.
Change of Venue
Your tickets shall remain non-refundable and will be valid for entry and attendance at a new venue shall Destination Defender have to move the event for any reason.
Weather & Acts of God
This is a rain-or-shine event. All tickets shall remain non-refundable in the case of bad weather, rain outs, or acts of God.
Add-Ons & Service Fees
All Destination Defender add-ons such as camping and glamping passes, and other premium activities are all non-refundable. Ticket service fees and credit card processing fees shall remain non-refundable.
Complete Cancelation of Event
If Destination Defender cancels the event in its entirety and does not reschedule the event, all tickets shall be refunded. In the case of cancelation, you will be contacted with further instruction.
Transferred Tickets or Third-Party Tickets
All tickets purchased from a third party, or tickets transferred to another party shall be non-refundable under all circumstances including complete event cancelation.
Currency and Payment
Ticket prices are in U.S. Dollars.
You agree to be bound by the terms and conditions herein by purchasing any item or ticket from Destination Defender.
Destination Defender reserves the right to adjust the Ticket Policy at any time.
Effective Date: September 1st, 2023
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My question isn’t listed here. How do I get in touch?
For additional questions, please contact our event concierge at info@destinationdefenderusa.com.
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What are my on-site lodging options?
Please click here to purchase a premium guest room, camping or glamping site.
Premium Guest Room:
Premium guest rooms will be available on a limited basis. These motel-style rooms come in two variations with a choice of either two double beds (sleeps 4) or two queen beds + one twin-sized bunk bed (sleeps 6). Closet space is limited. All premium guest rooms come with a full private bathroom, air conditioning, a television, bedding, and bath towels.
Housekeeping services available upon request.
Glamping:
Glamping is a modern luxury experience for your overnight stay in the great outdoors! Glamping sites are 25’ x 25’ and can accommodate up to 4 people with a multitude of bed configurations. If you select a glamping package, a concierge will contact you to discuss your options.
Glamping tents are equipped with power, electric heaters, beds, bed linens, and bath towels. There are indoor bathroom and shower facilities in the glampsite area accessible to those with a glamping pass.
Your vehicle will be parked in the standard parking area and a glamping coordinator will escort you to your glamping tent.
Camping:
Vehicle camping sites are 20 feet wide by 30 feet long. This will fit your Defender vehicle or most other SUV or trucks, with space for a tent and campsite set up. For larger or oversized vehicles, or if you prefer to have additional space, we recommend purchasing a second campsite. Only one vehicle per campsite will be permitted. The purchase of camping space will include the 20’ x 30’ space of land only. We recommend you bring your own camping essentials, or pre-reserve the camping essentials package in advance for rental items.
No electricity or plumbing hookups will be available at any camping sites.
Upon arrival, you will be directed by event staff to park in the designated vehicle camp area. Staff will escort you to your allocated campsite. Campsites are distributed upon arrival so if you would like campsites near other parties, please arrive together so we can do our best to accommodate your request.
For those who are traveling by air or with limited camp gear, a Camping Essentials Package can be rented for $325. The Camping Essentials Package includes: (1) camping tent, (2) sleeping bags, (2) pillows, (2) flashlights, a lantern, (2) camping chairs, and (2) towels. Package does not include the camping space which would need to be purchased separately. Rental is for the full weekend. Registration attendants will advise of pick up location upon check in.
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Are camping trailers and RV homes allowed?
We highly recommend that you select alternative camping options, however for those guests that require a trailer, tow-behind camping trailers will be permitted onsite in a limited capacity and must adhere to the size requirements outlined below. All camping trailers will be required to park and remain in a campsite area designated for trailers and mobile campers only. A camping trailer pass must be purchased in advance for $295 per trailer, which permits one towing vehicle and one tow-behind trailer.
Drivable RV or motor homes will not be permitted.
There will be no electricity or plumbing hookups available at any camping or parking sites.
Permitted:
• Travel trailer/pop-up campers under 20 feet in length
Not Permitted:
• Drivable RV or motor homes
• Travel trailer/pop-up campers of any kind larger than 20 feet long
• Trailers exceeding 20 feet in length and/or multi-vehicle trailers
• Buses
*Festival staff reserves the right to deny any trailer entry onto the property.
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Are auto transport / vehicle towing trailers allowed?
We highly recommend that you locate a parking facility in a nearby town to unload your vehicle and store your trailer prior to arriving to Iron Horse Ranch, and drive all vehicles into the property. There is limited space for storage of auto-transport/vehicle towing trailers. If you do require trailer transport of your vehicle, you must purchase in advance a vehicle trailer pass for $115 per trailer. This does not include the cost of any campsite or overnight accommodation options which must be purchased separately. Upon arrival, parking attendants will direct you to the appropriate location to park and unload your vehicle towing trailer for storage. Due to onsite traffic flow, you may be required to exit the property and re-enter through the main gate after unloading in order to navigate your unloaded vehicle(s) to your assigned overnight camping area.
*Festival staff reserves the right to deny any trailer entry onto the property.
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Can I stay offsite and come back if I'm not camping?
Yes, re-entry to the festival is permitted between 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (CT) on Friday and Saturday, and between 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (CT) on Sunday.
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Is there electricity onsite?
There is electricity onsite for vendors and glamping sites. Cell phone charging stations will be located throughout the property. There is no electricity provided at standard vehicle campsites. Only solar or electric generators will be permitted. Gas powered generators are NOT permitted due to noise and fumes.
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Can I buy merchandise?
There will be an on-site storefront where guests can purchase branded goods and select items from a variety of Defender-inspired merchandise collections.
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What if I forget supplies?
A general store will be open (9:00AM to 9:00PM) where guests can purchase toiletries and basic items they may have forgotten while traveling.
While the store will try to accommodate as many items as possible, it is recommended you bring as much of your equipment and supplies as possible.
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Are there flushable toilets and showers?
There will be restrooms around the property and located within the campsite areas. Shower facilities are located within the glamping area and accessible only by those with glamping passes.
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How can I charge my cell phone?
There will be cell phone charging stations located throughout the property. You may also want to bring battery backups, solar or electric generators (non-gas), or a car charger for charging your phone in your car without the engine running.
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What items are prohibited?
• Outside Alcohol
• Drugs
• Fireworks
• Explosives
• Weapons
• Fires, fire pits, or open flames
• Charcoal camp grills or stoves
• Propane tanks over 20 oz
• Drones
• Illegal Substances
• Gas Powered Generators
• Golf Carts, ATVs, Side-by-Sides, or Recreational Scooters
• Trailers exceeding 20 feet in length
• RV Home
Campsites will be located adjacent to each other. Please be respectful of your fellow campers. Security reserves the right to request you discontinue use of, or confiscate items that are dangerous or a hinderance to the enjoyment of other campers.
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What do we do with trash?
When leaving, LEAVE NO TRACE. Please respect the land and festival grounds!
Everything you bring with you when you arrive, take out with you when you leave. Bring extra trash bags, don’t litter, and clean up after yourself. There will be trash deposit areas and cans around the campsites for your use. Keeping the environment clean makes it more enjoyable for you, your neighbors, and it’s good for the environment. It’s the right thing to do. When leaving, please have all trash in trash bags at the designated trashcan areas. Our staff will come around to pick up trash bags and take them to the dumpsters or recycling bins. DO NOT leave large items such as tents, shade shelters, chairs, etc. even if broken.