Detroit 4Fest 2025 rolled into Holly Oaks ORV Park this weekend, and yesterday we had the chance to be on the ground, taking it all in. The two-day off-road celebration once again proved why it’s one of Michigan’s premier events for Jeep® and 4×4 fans. With trails packed, vendor tents buzzing, and the atmosphere was pure off-road culture.
It’s no surprise that Jeep was one of the headlining sponsors, and they came prepared. Their display showcased an impressive lineup of current production vehicles along with some jaw-dropping concept rigs.
The all-new 2026 Jeep Cherokee made its public appearance, giving fans a first look at the boxier, hybrid-powered SUV that marks a new chapter for the nameplate. The Grand Wagoneer Series III stood tall, reminding everyone that luxury and off-road capability can go hand in hand. Jeep also brought the Compass Limited, the always-capable Gladiator Rubicon, and the plug-in hybrid Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe.
But what really drew the crowds were Jeep’s Easter Jeep Safari concepts. On display this year were the Gladiator Honcho, a retro-inspired pickup that had people smiling; the Wrangler Rewind, which threw back to the classic YJ era; the rugged Wrangler Bugout, designed for adventure off the grid; and the striking Wrangler Blueprint, which looked like a rolling sketch come to life. Jeep fans were everywhere, snapping photos, talking shop, and crowding around each of the vehicles.
One of the best parts of 4Fest is the Vendor Village, and this year it didn’t disappoint. Dozens of aftermarket and off-road companies set up shop, showing off the latest gear, parts, and accessories.
We stopped by booths from Unofficial Use Only, known for their custom Jeep builds, and America’s Most Wanted 4×4 (AMW4x4), who specialize in HEMI® engine swaps that turn ordinary Jeeps into monsters. Steer Smarts was on hand with upgraded steering solutions, while Dana highlighted their legendary axles. Bilstein™ brought their suspension expertise, showing off shocks that can handle anything you throw at them.
Other notable vendors included JeeTops, MAXIMUS-3, Lake and Trail Accessories, Affordable Offroad, Midland with their radios and communication gear, TYRI Off-Road Lighting with night-ready products, and Katzkin Leather, offering custom interiors that can transform a Jeep cabin into something special. The variety of companies really showed the depth of the off-road aftermarket and gave attendees plenty of ideas for their next upgrade.
Detroit 4Fest isn’t just about displays—it’s about action. The event schedule was loaded with activities from start to finish.
The Off-Road 101 Training presented by Eaton was a hit, especially with newcomers looking to learn the basics in a safe and structured environment. The women-only session at noon, hosted by Wicked Jeeps, gave female drivers the chance to gain confidence and experience out on the trails.
One of the most popular spectacles was the Notch Shootout, a hillclimb competition featuring three classes: Rock Bouncers/Buggies, Full-Size Trucks, and UTVs/SxS machines. Crowds lined the hillside to cheer drivers as they clawed their way up the steep grades. The raw horsepower and determination on display had everyone buzzing.
In the evening, the event shifted gears with festivities at Mt. Holly Ski Resort, where live music by Itchycoo Park, Detroit Legends filled the air. The Passport to Prizes drawing added to the excitement, with fans lining up for their shot at giveaways, including the grand prize of an all-expenses-paid trip to Moab, Utah.
For Jeep owners, Detroit 4Fest also doubled as an opportunity to participate in the Jeep Badge of Honor program. By checking in through the Badge of Honor app, Jeep drivers could log their time on the trails at Holly Oaks ORV Park and earn a physical hard badge to proudly mount on their rig. It’s a way for enthusiasts to not only test their vehicles but also join a nationwide community that celebrates Jeep life.
From the mud-slinging trails to the vendor displays and live music, Detroit 4Fest 2025 had it all. Jeep’s presence was massive, vendors brought their best, and fans showed up in droves to celebrate off-road culture. Whether you came to compete, learn, shop, or just hang out, the event once again proved why it’s a highlight of the off-road calendar here in Michigan.
