Stage Event Brännfors – Rally Fest for the Whole Family

Stage Event Brännfors – Rally Fest for the Whole Family

Stage Event Brännfors is more than just a spectator area – it’s an arena where rally fans get to experience the competition up close. The Sarsjöliden stage passes by the area, and a host of activities surround it, making the event reminiscent of the Red Barn Arena in central Umeå.

“It’s like a mini Red Barn Arena, but in the forest. We chose to call it Stage Event, but the idea is the same – a place where rally meets family activities and a community festival where everyone is welcome,” says Adam Pihlgren, the event coordinator for the arena.

A Strong Collaboration with Vännäs Municipality

The Brännfors Stage Event has come to life thanks to a close collaboration between Rally Sweden, Vännäs Municipality, Toyota, and local stakeholders.

“We have been involved with Rally Sweden since the competition came to Västerbotten, but this year we are making an extra effort. This is an opportunity for us to showcase Vännäs to an international audience and create a meeting place where people feel at home,” says Emelie Höglander, Business Developer at Vännäs Municipality.

Toyota plays a central role in the event, providing both test drive areas and spectacular demonstrations. For the audience, this means a unique chance to see rally cars in action – and even to try driving them themselves.

“Toyota is an important partner, just like Vännäs Municipality, and they really elevate the event. Their presence allows us to offer something unique, where the audience gets to be part of the rally experience,” adds Adam Pihlgren.

At the same time, Vännäs Municipality has worked to create a comprehensive program for families.

“We wanted to make this a gathering place for the whole family, where you can both enjoy the rally and take part in fun activities. Here, you can try everything from a ski relay to ice bowling, sledding, or experience Magic Peppes’ mini village,” explains Emelie Höglander.

The Perfect Place to Experience the Rally

The Brännfors area has been carefully planned to offer the best possible experience for spectators. Thanks to the layout of the stage, the audience enjoys one of the best views at the entire rally.

“It’s a really good spectator spot. You get to see the cars for a longer period because the stage features fewer curves and long straight sections. That means you can follow the drivers through several segments, which creates an awesome rally experience,” says Adam Pihlgren.

One of the great advantages of Stage Event Brännfors is that everything is gathered in one area. There’s also a big screen where visitors can watch the competitions live. The audience can easily move between the rally stage and the various activities, turning waiting periods into part of the overall experience rather than just a pause.

“Between competitions, you can go grab something to eat, try driving a car, test ice bowling, or do a bit of skiing. There’s always something to do, which makes this the perfect place to experience the rally,” explains Emelie.

Local Engagement in Vännäs

An important aspect of the event is the collaboration with Liljaskolan in Vännäs. Students and teachers from the Children and Leisure Program will be on site to organize activities for families.

“It feels incredibly valuable to involve young people in such a large event. They get the chance to be part of something big while contributing to an enhanced experience for the visitors,” says Emelie Höglander.

The students will host activities ranging from face painting and snow play to organizing the ski relay and assisting with competitions. Additionally, the local leisure center will be on hand, lending equipment for those who want to try snowkick or other winter sports.

“This is an important part of our work to strengthen the collaboration between schools, businesses, and associations. We want the event to have a strong local foundation and for as many people as possible to be involved,” Emelie emphasizes.

VIP Experience and Great Food

Just like at the Red Barn Arena, Stage Event Brännfors offers an exclusive VIP experience. Hotel Vännäs is responsible for running the VIP tent, which this year has expanded from 10×20 meters to 10×25 meters to accommodate more visitors.

“We have seen increased interest in the VIP experience, so we wanted to improve it further. The tent offers a heated environment, excellent food, and a perfect place to follow the rally,” says Adam Pihlgren.

In addition to the VIP tent, the local association Tväråbäckbygdens IF will operate a sales tent offering hamburgers, coffee, and snacks for everyone.

“We want everyone to be able to stay the whole day, enjoy good food, and experience the rally. That’s why we’ve ensured there are great food options for both VIP guests and the wider audience,” explains Emelie.

More Stage Events to Come

Stage Event Brännfors is still a relatively new part of Rally Sweden, but both the municipality and the organizers view it as a long-term initiative.

“We see this as the starting point for something that can grow even more. Rally Sweden’s investment in Vännäs means a lot to us, and we want to continue developing the event. This is an opportunity to attract more visitors and put Vännäs on the map as an important part of the rally,” says Emelie Höglander.

The development of Stage Event Brännfors follows the direction that Rally Sweden has been planning for several years.

“Red Barn Arena in central Umeå is the event heart of Rally Sweden, but for several years we have been working with the concept of Stage Events – locations along the stages where we can offer great spectator areas, VIP opportunities, and various activities,” explains Erik Åström, Event Director at Rally Sweden. He continues:

“With these types of arenas, we want to cater to several target groups who enjoy rally. We have the dedicated rally fans who make their own way to their favorite spots, then we have the broader event audience who want to experience all that the Red Barn Arena has to offer. Additionally, there are those who want a bit of everything – rally action on the stages along with organized activities, spectator areas, food, and drinks. That’s where we see Stage Events as a great alternative. With Brännfors being the first Stage Event since last year, we are now developing it further with the municipality. Going forward, the goal is to establish a few more Stage Events,” adds Åström.

For Adam Pihlgren, it’s the overall experience that makes it truly special.

“Rally Sweden is so much more than cars driving through the forest. It’s about encounters, experiences, and a community festival where everyone can participate. I’m super excited and hope that all visitors feel the same way!”

Text: Amanda Darehed