The fifth instalment of the laid-back and fun car meet ‘GFGS CaLife’ kicks off on Sunday 10 May in Yahiko Village, Niigata!

Following the pre-event in October 2023, the fifth instalment of the laid-back and pop-style car meet ‘GFGS CaLife’ will take place on Sunday 10 May 2026 in Yahiko Village, Nishikanbara District, Niigata Prefecture. Under the theme of ‘POP interaction where people and cars come together’, the event aims to bring together owners of cute cars—such as RVs and SUVs that excel in both outdoor adventures and daily life—as well as owners of retro, charming ‘pike cars’ with round or square headlights, to foster interaction and deepen the car lifestyle experience with the general public. Incidentally, the term ‘Pike Car’ refers to compact cars from the 1980s and 90s—the heyday of this trend—which feature designs and styling that defy convention and trends, brimming with a playful spirit.

This time, there are numerous entries from the VW (Volkswagen) contingent, led by the ‘Rover Mini’, along with the Type 1 (affectionately known as the ‘Beetle’) and the Type 2 Transporter, and it seems there will be a wealth of rare models on display!　In addition to DJ sets, live performances, merchandise stalls and workshops, there will be gourmet food and sweets unique to the local area. Admission is free, so do come along and experience this playful car culture at the venue!!

Scenes from vol. 4, held on Sunday, 5 October 2025. Participants came from a wide range of areas, not only Niigata Prefecture but also neighbouring prefectures such as Nagano and Yamagata, the Kanto region including Tokyo, and the Kansai region including Kyoto and Osaka, with a total of 60 vehicles on display.