Pagoda SL Group
W113 Pagoda SL Group => Events => Topic started by: mdsalemi on June 10, 2025, 21:43:37
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Hello Members!
Registration for PagodaFest 2025 is now open! Click the link here to be taken directly to the registration page:
https://tinyurl.com/PagodaFest2025
Summary: PagodaFest 2025 will be held in the Great Smoky Mountains of eastern Tennessee, near Knoxville in the vicinity of some of the greatest driving roads in the eastern USA, and the gorgeous Appalachian Mountains. We'll follow a program similar to past events: A day of technical sessions, plenty of hands-on time with cars and friends, meals, a banquet and a driving event. The event runs from Thursday, September 25th through Sunday September 28th.
There is NOTHING like a PagodaFest to meet your fellow members, see dozens of Pagodas with dedicated enthusiasts, get your questions answered or lend your expertise. If you are a new member or have not been to a club event in the past, be sure to include this one, everyone is waiting to meet you!
Host hotel is Courtyard Knoxville Airport Alcoa where we've negotiated a special rate of just $139/night. Here is the link to secure this room rate. Be certain to double check your planned CHECK IN and CHECK OUT dates when making a hotel reservation.
https://tinyurl.com/PagodaFest2025-Hotel
Registration cost of PagodaFest is $300 per person and includes the club program and banquet. Your hotel and incidentals are extra. When you register online, please ensure you provide an email you use regularly as well as your mobile phone. The link to take you directly to the hotel registration is also provided on our registration form.
Typical driving times to Knoxville, from:
New York: 11 hours
Washington DC: 8 Hours
Atlanta: 3:40
Chicago: 8:40
Columbus: 5:20
Raleigh: 6 Hours
Your planning committee is working on program details now so expect updates periodically. Some may choose to arrive earlier or stay later, and take advantage of some of these great driving roads such as Tail of the Dragon and Cherohala Skyway the latter of which is celebrated by Hagerty as the road of the year for 2025.
https://www.hagerty.com/media/driving/hagerty-road-of-the-year-2025-cherohala-skyway/
https://www.visitmysmokies.com/blog/smoky-mountains/tail-of-the-dragon-in-the-smoky-mountains/#google_vignette
Hope to see y'all there!
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Unfortunately, due to the political situation and now long standing travel warnings by our Government, I am going to pass on this one for the first time in 20 years.
Pretty sad about that but wish everyone the best for what I am sure will be another successful gathering.
Garry
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Unfortunately, due to the political situation and now long standing travel warnings by our Government, I am going to pass on this one for the first time in 20 years.
Pretty sad about that but wish everyone the best for what I am sure will be another successful gathering.
Garry
Garry, you missed Chicago, too. ;) That being said, the official Australian government position on travel for its citizens to the USA, is pretty much the same as it's been. "Exercise normal safety precautions in the United States of America."
https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/americas/united-states-america
The smart advice on the same Aussie website says "Avoid areas where demonstrations and protests are occurring due to the potential for unrest and violence. Monitor media for information, follow the instructions of local authorities and abide by any curfews." That's sound advice for anyone, INCLUDING Americans. I steer clear of these kinds of protests and gatherings. It is unlikely you would encounter such things around Knoxville or our event, or even getting to it no matter how. Curfews are exceedingly rare in the USA.
One thing that may have changed over the past few years is the entry requirements; they are strict. US authorities have broad powers to decide if you're eligible to enter and may determine that you are inadmissible for any reason under US law. Check US entry, registration, transit and exit requirements. Whether you're traveling on a visa or under the Visa Waiver Program, ensure you understand all relevant terms and conditions before attempting to enter the United States. [This isn't part of the new administration; early in 2024 my friend in Austria was initially denied an entry VISA waiver because he had traveled to Somalia some years earlier.]
One of our members from Italy just came to the USA for a two week long holiday in May, and he had to apply and get ESTA visa waiver. It was a formality granted quickly and his travel was easy and safe.
Most Americans and surely all American Pagoda Group members are quite welcoming of international visitors, and for those of our international members who want to come to PagodaFest, PLEASE DO! Aside from perhaps getting the Visa or Visa Waiver, which you get at home, your trip will be easy. It won't be an uneventful trip because PagodaFest will be memorable!
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Maybe it's just me, but the Marriott reservation process seems pretty messed up. When I select the Pagoda rate, it switched the check in date to tuesday the 23rd rather than thursday the 25th, and charges for 2 extra days. There doesn't seem to be any way to change it.
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This is great! I'm in.
My thanks to everyone who helps organize it.
I look forward to meet old friends and making new friends.
Martijn
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Michael,
Certainly not wanting to get in to politics but maybe what I access and see is probably not what you are able to access.
The only time in my life I have been initially unable to get a visa to enter the USA was to come to a PUB when Trump was previously the President due to me having (as a Military Officer) worked in a Middle Eastern country whilst integrated in a US operation and the President banned any one that had been to certain countries.
After an extensive interview at the US Embassy here in Australia, I was given an exemption to the Presidents Executive Order and attended the PUB. My normal 5 year US Visa expired this year. I am not going through the renewal process at this time again. ETSA has never worked well as an option for me. I have a US Social Security card as you know, but that doesn’t count for much for a foreigner any more.
2023, we, as in Australia, still had a Covid problem re travel but I did attend a Euro Tour to make up for it. 😎
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Maybe it's just me, but the Marriott reservation process seems pretty messed up. When I select the Pagoda rate, it switched the check in date to tuesday the 23rd rather than thursday the 25th, and charges for 2 extra days. There doesn't seem to be any way to change it.
I had no issue changing check in day from Tuesday to Wednesday. Same rate. If that doesn’t work for you, just call the hotel directly.
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A close friend of mine asked if any part of the event will be open to the public as he would like to see mostly the Pogodas. Mine is still in restoration phase and will not be ready for the Fest. I assume the fee covers all the program and drives, etc. Thanks.
Bruce Bliss
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A close friend of mine asked if any part of the event will be open to the public as he would like to see mostly the Pogodas. Mine is still in restoration phase and will not be ready for the Fest. I assume the fee covers all the program and drives, etc. Thanks.
Bruce Bliss
If your friend wants to just see Pagodas for some reason, I suppose he can come to the parking lot of the hotel during the event. Remember though it is not a car show.
You can still come as a member with or without your car. In fact, if you have a car that is in process of restoration, this event would be well worth your time to speak with many other members who have been through the process.
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Trying to find a way to be there. Curious about how long the drive will be to get to the Cherohala and/or Dragon, and then how long the drive will be once we get there, and then how long the drive will be to get back to the hotel? has anyone done a route map yet? A little concerned about the Leaf people as well, as I saw a video that showed traffic jams that time of year. My bladder ain't what it used to be.
Mike
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Peak foliage for that area is usually mid October. The ride is estimated around 4 hours with a lunch stop planned around the 2:20 mark (and before the tail of the dragon section). There are lots of places to stop along the route if needed. The ride is planned for Friday with hope that the traffic will be a bit lighter.
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Mike,
The map of the route will be in the upcoming Pagoda Notes.
Since we start in Knoxville at the hotel, it's about an hour to get to Tellico Plains, TN which is the beginning of the Cherohala Skyway. That's maybe about an hour. Before anyone gets on, a good idea for any "necessary stops" as well as fuel; as the Skyway has many places to pull over and off, but no towns along the way. Another hour or so, and that part of the ride is over, in Robbinsville, NC. That's lunchtime. Then the ride back which includes the Tail of the Dragon. The google map shows the continuous drive (no stops) at 3:45, 156 miles. Harry Bailey will have some shorter routes in the area for those that don't want to do this drive--but as these are some of the best driving roads you'll find, it's worth it.
Everyone will be provided with proper route guidance.
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Thanks for the guidance. Hope to be there.
M
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As much as I would like to attend, I cannot in good conscience travel to the US until the current political leaders stop insulting and threatening Canada and all the good people that live here. I am also not attending an event that other then during Covid, have not missed since 1987.
Please have a great time and hope to see everyone soon.
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…I cannot in good conscience travel to the US until the current political leaders stop insulting and threatening Canada and all the good people that live here…
Jack, I don’t think anyone will blame you.
Please understand, however, that it is the administration that is doing this, with a different opinion and varying levels of chaos daily.
Certainly, none of your Pagoda friends here (and indeed, most USA citizens) have anything but good things to say about Canada and Canadians. I can’t speak for everybody, but I can say I have not a whit of understanding about why one would attack or go after our friendly neighbor to the north, the longest unguarded border in the world. Everyone knows that Canadians are the nicest and most polite people on the face of the Earth. I’ve had a number of discussions about this reprehensible treatment of Canada and Canadians with long time Toronto member, George Henne. BTW our last Pagoda Book, Volume III was printed in Manitoba. So we here at the Pagoda group cherish Canada and our Canadian members and friends!
One thing I could absolutely positively guarantee you: there will be no members of the current administration having anything to do with Pagoda Fest.
You will only find fellow members who will enjoy your company.
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Jack,
I couldn't agree more with Michael. It is shameful that we are in this situation and one can only hope short term. Sorry that you will miss what will be my first time to any Pagoda event.
Mark
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Thank-you Mike.
I know the folks in this group along with my many friends in the US are very supportive and I want to insure everyone that I realize this issue is from the office of the POTUS and no reflection of my friends.
Hopefully, this is a short term problem and we can return to some sort of normalcy sooner rather than later.
Jack
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Still working it, but we've received two supportive donations so far to help with PagodaFest:
A gift certificate good for a two-piece Palm Fiber Cocomat set from Cocomats; if we get additional gift certificates will probably have a silent auction on banquet night.
A cash donation from Bud's Benz.
Thank you, and members: thank our vendors!
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Trailer parking? Rough itinerary?
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Trailer parking? Rough itinerary?
I am quite certain that the hotel parking lot has an area where a trailer could be parked. I have yet to see a hotel without this except in downtown locations!!
Most information can be found in the registration area, but people generally arrive on Thursday and this is a good time for a meet and greet, some open hood time, discussion of particular cars, and all kinds of ad hoc meet ups. Friday is planned our fantastic drive. Saturday is our tech sessions. There’s plenty of time for people to meet each other and plenty of time to look and discuss the cars.
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Hey Michael, how many spots are available and when would registration close? Trying like heck to work this in
Thanks
Lance
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Registration will close August 15, plenty of spots available
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For anyone that has not visited PagodaFest in the past and is considering attending for the first time, it is a lot of fun! Here is a short video of all of the Pagodas and owners lining up for a group photo at the last meet in Chicago.
https://youtube.com/shorts/G6C4WydxdI0?si=nz0MiEJa3RVYVITB
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Hello Michael
I am hoping to attend the Pagodafest in Knoxville this fall. I just obtained what is my 3rd 230SL, a 67 that I am working on. This 230SL replaces all my vintage Mercedes cars I sold (2 mid-60's 230SL's and an original 68 280SL, and a 72 350SL which was my first Mercedes) before I moved to Florida permanently in 2011. Now back in Ohio as of 2021. I still have plenty of replacements now with a 57 Ponton coupe and a 2018 SLC300. If I get all I want to do on this 230 in time, I will drive it down from Cincinnati. If not I have several options in the stable. Looking forward to seeing some fellow Pagoda owners and hopefully some others from Ohio. Thanks.
Scott Tripp (aka)
mbnutz @twc.com
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Everyone seemed to want an event, and everyone who attends our events (no matter where or when) generally comes away with a positive experience. Thus, if you can make PagodaFest this year, the time to sign up is now. The closing date is approaching!
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Our final reminder note has gone out this morning.
Deadline for registration is August 15th.
Yes there's talk of a European event for next year, but we have one for THIS YEAR that you can go to in September. For Americans, expect a driving experience like no other. You'll soar to an altitude of 5,350 feet at the Santeetlah overlook on the Cherohala Skyway. Hold on as you negotiate switchbacks and turns--318 of them in just 11 miles on the Tail of the Dragon.
But the best part is all the open hood camaraderie with your fellow members.
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Oh, I wish Lucy and I hadn't already committed and paid for our trip to Europe during this time frame. We've been on the Tail of the Dragon with the Pagoda (and there is a piece of my brother's Aprila on the Tree of Shame) but would have enjoyed driving it and the Cherohala Skyway with our Pagoda friends.
Drive 'em 'til the road wears out!
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Me and my pal (pictured below) will be there.
The wife won't join this time.
It will be great seeing everyone. I don't blame those from outside the US to not want to join due to current admin.
All the previous events that I have attended (I'm not going to list them) have been fantastic.
The attendees have been so friendly and helpful.
It a great few days for those of us obsessed with these automobiles and wanting to be with like minded friends.
See you soon.
Mark (Iconic)
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For those coming to Pagoda Fest, here is a link to the best 15 minutes you can invest before driving.
https://youtu.be/AHf9rOPfGmI?si=OpjYpcyJmFBNfgJY
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Thanks Michael !
I agree, very important to watch.
See you soon.
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Courtesy of AI:
The Tail of the Dragon is a famous 11-mile stretch of U.S. Route 129 on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina. It's known for its 318 curves, attracting car and motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the world. Driving this road requires a high degree of focus and caution. Here are some of the best driving tips for tackling it:
Prioritize Safety
* Stay in your lane: This is the most crucial rule. The road has no guardrails and steep drop-offs in many places. Crossing the double yellow line is incredibly dangerous due to blind curves and can result in a head-on collision. Law enforcement is also known to strictly enforce this.
* Drive at your skill level: Don't push yourself or your vehicle beyond your comfort zone. The road is challenging, with many decreasing-radius turns that tighten as you go, and changes in camber that can throw you off.
* Check road conditions: The road is much more dangerous in wet, icy, or snowy conditions. It's best to avoid the Tail of the Dragon entirely during winter.
Be Courteous and Aware of Others
* Use pull-offs: If a faster vehicle is approaching from behind, use one of the many designated pull-off areas to let them pass. It's safer for everyone and prevents tailgating.
* Be alert for other drivers: Some drivers may cross the center line or be driving at a reckless speed. Be prepared for the unexpected, especially around blind curves.
* Watch for trucks and wildlife: While trucks longer than 30 feet are prohibited, some still get through. Give them plenty of space. Also, be on the lookout for deer, bears, and other wildlife.
Plan Your Trip
* Go during off-peak times: The road is most crowded on weekends, especially during nice weather. Driving on a weekday or early in the morning will provide a more pleasant and less stressful experience.
* Keep your eyes on the road: The scenery is beautiful, but the road demands your full attention. Use the designated pull-offs if you want to stop and take in the view.
* Be prepared: The area has little to no cell service and gas stations are not on the 11-mile stretch, so make sure your vehicle is in good condition and you have plenty of fuel.
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My son (11) and I are hoping to attend. I was waiting for news and now know that we would not be able to arrive until Saturday morning. Are there activities you expect to occur on Saturday and Sunday?
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My son (11) and I are hoping to attend. I was waiting for news and now know that we would not be able to arrive until Saturday morning. Are there activities you expect to occur on Saturday and Sunday?
There will be plenty of open hood time with your fellow members on Saturday. In addition that’s our day for technical sessions and a lot of Q&A with other members and experts who will be there. Our dinner is on Saturday night. Most people will be heading home on Sunday.
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Hi it would be nice to catch up with you all. :)
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Hi it would be nice to catch up with you all. :)
You would be welcome. Even though registration is closed, we would be able to accommodate you.
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Hello, fellow Knoxville PagodaFest attendees,
I have had several requests for an agenda for our event. Below is an overview of the agenda as it currently stands.
Note that check-in for the event is Thursday evening or Friday morning. Thursday evening is a welcome happy (4) hours, with finger food (but not dinner). Also remember that our bar every evening will be cash-only.
Friday morning we'll have breakfast, a short welcome, then on the road for our big drive and lunch relatively early (starting at 9:30 a.m.).
-David
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Sorry I am unable to attend but what a nice way to present the Agenda David. Well Done
JB
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what a nice way to present the Agenda
Thanks, John, but I should have mentioned that the Agenda was courtesy of Harry Bailey, who lives in Knoxville and has been leading the planning for the event.
-David
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Hi great Jai and Zak are in be great to see you all.
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Jai and Zak are in
I think you meant to post this in the 2026 Euro event thread.
-David
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Good Morning. We are getting excited and are starting to make our preparations for our first PagodaFest!
We will be trailering to Knoxville from Florida. Are there any accommodations for truck/trailer parking? If not, any locals that might be able to guide us to a parking location.
Carlos & Jill
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I will be driving (in Pagoda) from the Chicago, IL area.
Is there anyone who wants to meet up and drive together?
My intent is to leave on Wednesday and make it two easy days of driving.
(Is there a better place to post this question?)
Mark