The 2012 Blox Open House was an event circled on many automotive calendars, especially for those in the Norcal car scene. Anticipation was high, and for good reason, as Blox has become a recognizable name in the automotive aftermarket, known for providing quality performance parts for various car makes and models. This coverage aims to give you an insider’s look at the event, offering a personal perspective on what made it noteworthy, and areas where it could potentially evolve.
Stepping into the Blox Open House, the scale of the meet was immediately apparent. With over 450 cars filling a substantial venue, it lived up to the hype as a major event in Northern California. Arriving early provided a valuable opportunity to witness the organized roll-in and setup process. The smooth operation was commendable; attendees entered the venue efficiently, setting a positive tone for the day. The seamless entry process reflected well on the organizers and suggested a well-planned event focused on the attendee experience right from the start.
The event presented a diverse array of vehicles, showcasing a 50/50 split in terms of car quality, typical of a large-scale meet. While the variety was appreciated, and awards were given in different categories akin to a car show, there was a palpable desire for a higher concentration of top-tier builds. However, it’s crucial to remember the Blox Open House is a free event, making it accessible to a wide spectrum of enthusiasts and their projects. The awards system, even within a meet format, added an element of friendly competition and recognition, which is always a welcome bonus for participants who invest heavily in their vehicles, often using aftermarket components readily available from brands like Blox Car Parts and others in the industry. The relaxed and open nature of the event meant all were welcome, contributing to a vibrant, if sometimes eclectic, atmosphere.
One area for potential improvement noted during the event was the car layout. To maximize space, vehicles were parked in rows, back-to-front, similar to a standard parking lot arrangement. While practical for capacity, this configuration made it challenging to fully appreciate each car’s aesthetics and design. Angled parking would significantly enhance the viewing experience, allowing attendees to see vehicles more completely and providing photographers with better angles for capturing detailed shots without obstructions. With attendees moving through the rows, the straight parking format contributed to a somewhat crowded feel. Revising the layout for future events to incorporate angled parking could address this, offering both improved visual appeal and better flow for attendees navigating the venue. This minor adjustment could greatly enhance the overall ambiance and photographic opportunities at the Blox Open House.
Despite this layout consideration, the overall experience at the Blox Open House was positive and worthwhile. The drive to the event was considerable, but the opportunity to witness the Norcal car scene firsthand was rewarding. For the Norcal region, the Blox Open House stands out as a significant event, especially considering the area doesn’t have the sheer volume of automotive gatherings seen in Southern California. This event clearly fills a vital role, drawing a diverse crowd and a solid collection of cars. There’s a sense that the Blox Open House is evolving, potentially transitioning towards a more structured car show format. Should this progression occur, remaining rooted in Norcal seems strategically advantageous, capitalizing on its established regional appeal. In a broader, more competitive landscape, emphasizing the unique aspects of the event and the Blox brand would be crucial for attracting enthusiasts.
The event’s strengths included the award categories, recognizing various builds, and the diverse mix of cars on display, reflecting the broad tastes within car culture. The organizational aspect was also well-managed, contributing to the smooth flow of the day. Focusing on refining the car layout would be a key step in further elevating the event experience.
Addressing the often-discussed dynamic between Skunk2 and Blox, the author maintained a neutral stance. Attending the Blox Open House was viewed as an opportunity to experience the event directly and form an independent opinion, separate from any industry narratives. The focus remained on appreciating the cars and the event itself, without engaging in external rivalries. The invitation to cover the Blox Open House was appreciated, and the event provided a valuable insight into what Blox offers to the automotive community beyond just performance parts. The hope is for continued growth and success for the Blox Open House in the future, serving as a key event for car enthusiasts in the region.
That concludes this part of the Blox Open House 2012 coverage. Stay tuned for the final installment with more highlights from the event. If you missed the first part, you can catch up here: Blox Open House 2012 Coverage…Part 1…
