WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS
DESTINATION DEFENDER
Destination Defender is a weekend festival designed for Defender owners and enthusiasts. The weekend includes curated adventure activities, camping, live music, Hudson Valley artisans and an evening to honor this year's Defender Service Award winners.
THE DEFENDER SERVICE AWARDS PRESENTED BY CHASE
The weekend culminated in the announcement of the Defender Service Award winners. The awards champion organizations across the U.S. and Canada who are making a difference in the categories of Animal Welfare, Veterans Outreach, Environmental & Conservation, Community Services and Search & Rescue. Special Musical Performance by Collective Soul
WEEKEND EVENTS
Activities during the day included live musical experiences, visiting Hudson Valley artisans, adventure activities, curated food experiences, camping, wellness workshops, learning opportunities and a look at historic Defender vehicles through the years.
CELEBRATING THE DEFENDER SERVICE AWARDS PRESENTED BY CHASE
The highlight of Destination Defender was an evening event on November 12, announcing the five winners of the 2022 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.
EXPERIENCE THE HUDSON VALLEY
Destination Defender took place on Oz Farm, an 82-acre estate located in Saugerties, NY, just a two-hour drive from New York City. Known for its vineyards, orchards and farms, Hudson Valley is also a popular destination for both food lovers and art enthusiasts alike.
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What is Destination Defender?
Destination Defender is a weekend festival designed for Defender owners and enthusiasts. The weekend includes curated adventure activities, off-roading experiences, camping, live music, Hudson Valley Artisans, and an evening celebration event to announce this year's Defender Service Awards winners.
The event is both indoor and outdoor. Some outdoor 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.
There are a number of indoor heated spaces housing event activities. Camping is outdoor. -
Where is Destination Defender?
Destination Defender is located at Oz Farm Equestrian and Events Facility in Saugerties, Ulster County, New York.
Address for GPS or map apps: 280 Malden Turnpike, Saugerties, NY 12477
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?
Destination Defender is a ticketed event for Defender owners and enthusiasts of the Defender lifestyle. Please click here to purchase tickets or if you are a Defender or Series vehicle owner, contact your local authorized Land Rover Retailer for more information on whether you are eligible for complimentary access.
Ticket options:
Day Pass: $50
• Daytime access to festival grounds on either Saturday, November 12 or Sunday, November 13 between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM
• Includes participation in daytime festival activities
• Day pass holders will not be permitted to remain onsite for overnight accommodations or events
Weekend Pass: $75
• Full access to festival grounds on Saturday, November 12 through Sunday, November 13
• Option to arrive Friday, November 11 between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM, if additional campsite is purchased
• Includes participation in all festival activities, excluding VIP experiences and the Defender Service Awards Dinner
Weekend VIP Experience: $500
• Full access to festival grounds Saturday, November 12 through Sunday, November 13
• Option to arrive Friday, November 11 between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM, if additional campsite is purchased
• Preferential access to activities and entertainment
• Access to exclusive VIP experiences
• Includes ticket to Defender Service Awards Winner's Announcement Celebration Dinner and Entertainment
Please note, camping and glamping options are available onsite for additional fees.
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What is the arrival process for Destination Defender?
When you arrive to Destination Defender, please have your confirmation email readily available. Event personnel will assist in checking in your entire party and distributing the appropriate wristbands based on your pass type and camping options. From there, you will be directed to park your vehicle in the area designated to you by your pass and/or camping choice.
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What onsite activations can I expect?
PROGRAMMING OVERVIEW: FRIDAY
2:00 PM Festival opens to campers (check-in open until 9 PM) 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM General Store, Defender Through The Decades display open 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM Defender Lodge beverage service open 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM Bonfire and conversation 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM Gourmet S’mores Bar open 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Stargazing with Astronomer 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM Live acoustic music in Defender Lodge *Programming schedule subject to change
PROGRAMMING OVERVIEW: SATURDAY
8:00 AM Festival opens for general admission 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM Defender Lodge barista open 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Off-Road Drive experience open 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Mountain Bike Skills Park open; Balance Challenge - Defender Slackline; Vertical Challenge - Top Rope Climbing; Junior Drive Experience 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM General Store, Defender Through The Decades display open 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Photography Seminars in Photography Pergola 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Culinary Sessions in Outdoor Gourmet Tent 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Programming and entertainment in Defender Lodge 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Defender Lodge beverage service open 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM Bonfire and conversation 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM Defender Service Awards Winner’s Announcement Celebration Event & Special Guest Entertainment (Ticket required) 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM Gourmet S’mores Bar open 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Stargazing with Astronomer *Programming schedule subject to change
PROGRAMMING OVERVIEW: SUNDAY
8:00 AM Festival opens for general admission 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM Defender Lodge barista open 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM General Store, Off-Road Drive Experience, Defender Through The Decades display open 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Mountain Bike Skills Park open; Balance Challenge - Defender Slackline; Vertical Challenge - Top Rope Climbing; Junior Drive Experience 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Programming and Entertainment in Defender Lodge 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Photography Seminars in Photography Pergola 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Culinary Sessions in Outdoor Gourmet Tent 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM Defender Lodge beverage service open 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM Dorothy Barn beverage service open 5:00 PM Guest Departures *Programming schedule subject to change
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What does the off-road drive experience entail?
Event attendees can participate in a Defender off-road drive experience on a short purpose-built course that will demonstrate the off-road capabilities of the Defender. Defender 90’s will be available for drives, or those who bring their own Defender or Series Vehicle will have the opportunity to take their own vehicle on the off-road course if they choose. All vehicles driven on the course will be accompanied by an expert Land Rover Instructor.
Only Defenders or Series Vehicles will be permitted on the course after inspection by a Land Rover Instructor.
The course will take an estimated 7 minutes to complete in full. Guests will be permitted to participate in the activation as many times as they wish, pending availability.
All drivers must be 21 years of age or older with valid driver’s license. All drivers must pass a breathalyzer exam before being permitted to drive. All guests must sign a waiver to participate.
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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 camping option you have selected.
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Is there special parking for Defender and Series vehicles?
Yes, on a first come first serve basis, Defender and Series vehicles will be directed to park in the Defender Corral area for event participants to view. There is general parking on site for all other vehicles.
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What is the Defender Service Awards Winner’s Announcement Celebration Event?
Winners of the Defender Service Awards Presented by Chase will be announced at a dinner and celebration event onsite at Destination Defender on Saturday, November 12. Attendance requires purchase of a Weekend VIP Experience pass, or sponsorship of a table. Doors to the celebration will open at 6:00PM. The event will conclude with a live musical performance.
The dress code for the Defender Service Awards Announcement Celebration Dinner and Entertainment is casual. Although the event will take place in an indoor, heated facility, the remainder of 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.
The Defender Service Awards support organizations across the US and Canada who are making a difference in their communities and for whom a new Defender would aid in their mission. Winners will be selected in the categories of Animal Welfare, Veteran’s Outreach, Environmental and Conservation, Community Services, and Search and Rescue. 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 Celebration?
If you are interested in becoming an event sponsor or purchasing a table for the Defender Service Awards Announcement Celebration Dinner and Entertainment, please contact our concierge at reservations@rsvplandrover.com, or call (877) 988-6611 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 16 and under can attend complimentary when accompanied with an adult ticket holder.
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What weather can I expect?
November temperatures in Ulster County average from the mid 50’s (F) during the day to the mid 30’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 rain flies for tents. You should always stake your tents in the 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.
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When can we arrive? Is there early entry?
The event officially begins on Saturday, November 12th at 8AM, at which time gates will be open to all pass holders and festival programming will begin.
Early arrivals for those who have purchased a camp pass (with Weekend or VIP pass) will begin at 2PM on Friday, November 11th. The check in window on Friday is from 2PM – 5PM Eastern Time. If you arrive after 5PM, you will be unable to enter the event site until 8AM Saturday morning.
Weekend, VIP, and camping/glamping check-in continues on Saturday, November 12 from 8AM – 5PM.
Day pass holders are permitted onsite from 8AM – 5PM on Saturday or Sunday for participation in all daytime activities. Day pass holders will not be permitted to remain onsite in the overnight camping area or participate in activities scheduled after 5PM.
All guests and belongings must be cleared from the property by 6PM on Sunday, November 13.
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Where can I stay if I prefer not to camp onsite?
There are many hotels and rental accommodations in the area. Please visit the venue website here for their recommendations on local area lodging.
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Can I bring my pets?
Pets are welcome on event grounds and at some outdoor activities and must remain on a leash at all times. 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 may not be permitted inside some indoor facilities. Pets are not allowed in the dining area 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 farm 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 with an "off road" kit. There will be an ADA accessible bathroom and accessible ramp entrance to the barn where the Defender Service Awards Winner’s Announcement Celebration Event will take place. Please contact our event concierge at reservations@rsvplandrover.com, or call (877) 988-6611 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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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 overall 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.
For more information on the status of the event please visit www.landroverusa.com/destinationdefender.
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 are all non-refundable. Ticket service fees and credit card processing fees, if charged by the ticketing provider, 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: October 14, 2022
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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 reservations@rsvplandrover.com, or call (877) 988-6611.
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How large is a campsite?
Vehicle camp sites are 12 feet wide by 30 feet long. This will fit your Defender 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.
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 nearby other parties, please arrive together so we can do our best to accommodate your request.
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What is glamping?
Glamping is a modern luxury experience for your overnight stay in the great outdoors! Glamping sites are 18’ x 18’ 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.
Glamp tents are equipped with power, electric heaters, beds, bed linens, and towels. There are bathroom trailer facilities, as well as 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 glamp tent.
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Can I stay offsite and come back if I'm not camping?
Yes, re-entry to the festival is permitted if you are parking in the day parking lot. For those who are camping, we ask that you plan in advance not to move your car off-property during the event. There will be opportunities for Defender owners to take their vehicles on the off-road course, even if parked in a campsite area. If there is an emergency and you must leave a campsite area, security will assist in escorting you off property.
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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. Gas Generators are NOT allowed in any of the camping areas due to noise and fumes. Only Solar or Electric generators are allowed in all other camping areas.
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What if I forget supplies?
There will be a general store on site to sell supplies such as water, snacks, basic toiletries, bug spray, ice, etc. While the store will try to accommodate as many items as possible, it does not sell tents, or other large gear. 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 are flushable toilet trailers around the property and located within the campsite areas. Shower trailers 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
• Charcoal Grills
• Large Propane Tanks (over 20 lbs)
• Fires or fire pits
• Drones
• Illegal Substances
• Gas Powered Generators
• Golf Carts, ATVs, Side-by-Sides, or Recreational Scooters
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. -
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.