The time had finally come where I had an opportunity to get back on the road and make the 300kms trek from Cold Lake to Edmonton, the City of Champions and road construction. 2022 was another busy year with the daily grind and assisting with the show scene locally so coverage was non existent for any of the events I had previously covered.
Fast forward to 2023 and Midnight Revup has been a show that many have given accolades to over the years, and this was my first taste of what the show had to offer. The location had me inspired as I knew the lighting at the Edmonton Expo would be much better than several of the parking lot venues I have attended in the past. As I rolled in, it was evident something was going on as a few modified imports were leaving the lot and several slammed sti’s were scattered amongst an S2000, Viper, and a couple of Honda Civic Type R’s.
I will say, that paying for parking was an added expense that unfortunately increased the cost of attending plus the ticket to gain entrance but I was committed and grabbed my Canon R6 and entered the Expo Centre.
The vibe was good upon entering with the DJ doing his thing and many vendors showcasing what they had to offer. I noticed immediately that there were an abundance of Hondas at this event but also many of the vehicles I had seen at previous events. Perhaps it was because of the added parking cost but there did not seem to be as many spectators as other shows I have captured but that is not necessarily a bad thing as a photographer.
What is the old saying, “Quality over Quantity” and Midnight Revup did have a good variety of vehicles in attendance such as this Amuse GT1 s2k. I had been informed that this is a very rare version and it was extremely clean. I have never claimed to be an expert when it comes to knowing all of the manufacturers for parts and engine nomenclature but I can recognize a visually well put together ride.
Up next was this 2JZ swapped FRS. I believe the owner of Posh Detailing owns it and he did take home an award at the end of the night. Everything had been touched on this car for modifications, from the interior, to brakes and the Millenium Jade color choice. Hard to beat this combo.
From VIP,a slammed Golf, to an STi on Work Meister L1 3piece wheels, this slideshow has a good variety of some of the offerings.
Earlier, I mentioned the sea of Hondas in attendance. This EK hatch was simple but something that was a nice sight to see. No bodykits but lowered on Regamasters, massive turbo, J’s Racing wing and a very cool shifter inside.
This Datsun was a highlight for me from the show and I had not seen it since an Edmonton Motor Show at the same location probably what seems like 7 years ago. BBS wheels, an RB26 motor and surprisingly no fender flares, this Z was excellent. Courtesy of SSS Motorsports
Once again, blue and BBS wheels flowed well but this time the combo was a highly modified Mini Cooper. Air ride helped with the stance of this Mini and I do have an addiction for everything low.
SUV’s? How about some clean examples of how to not be in your face but also make a statement. At one time I was on the hunt for either a Landcruiser, GX 470, or LX450 until I realized just how hard they are to find in great shape and of course the fuel mileage had me thinking it would not be a good daily versus my GS300. The white GX I have seen on social media before(_rhyzz_) and it was great to finally see it in person. The Mercedes was cleaned up well and it looked to be ready for an excursion after the show ended.
Closer to the back corner, was another EK Civic, this time with some SPOON pieces.
Sub 60 Racing had my favorite vehicle on display with this FD Rx7. LHD and still rocking a rotary engine, this was one of the cleanest examples I have seen. The white Marquis Promodas brought back memories of when I had a custom set of Ghost Chrome Marquis Promodas on my blue Z32. Hard to believe I sold those back in the day for $1800 to a gentleman in Australia for his R34 and now they are worth twice that.
Whether it was the color, the ride height or the drop top, location helped as well but this car drew in the crowds. Finally, I was able to grab some photos of this BMW. It was unfortunate at another show a few years ago how it was nestled in a dark corner and really deserved more of a premium spot but now the owner had the ability to properly showcase the efforts.
G19 Graphics had a high impact booth with several cars I am familiar with. Satin was the theme and the wraps were done very well on the vehicles showcased.
A very unique Miata courtesy of the Ghost Gang crew. The heart theme carried over from the interior to the wheels.
The team at Invision brought out a variety of Bride seats for everyone to try out. They were all too narrow for me as I reminisced of the Brides I had in my old MR2 but it was a great opportunity for everyone in attendance to try out the styles to see what would fit best.
If you were looking on how to subtly modify your new Supra, this yellow one showcased what can be accomplished without going widebody. Be certain to check out the owner’s channel. I always find Canadian content has a struggle in comparison to stateside. How to help creators grow? Share with your friends. https://www.youtube.com/@Huesaflash
Drift cars are purpose built and the ones I am familiar with are typically mismatched panels and are aggressive in appearance, but are not usually show cars per say. This 240sx looked the part and it was neat to see the Flying Penguin sticker on the corner glass. If you have never checked out Brandon’s Blog, you can find it here. http://www.theflyingpenguin.ca
Most shows have glass awards for those fortunate enough to be recipients from the Judge’s scrutiny but these steering wheels were excellent.
With the final group shot of the volunteers and the award recipients completed, the hall echoed with the sounds of the vehicles firing up and they headed into the darkness of the night. Overall, the show was well displayed and those in attendance, were sure to have found a favorite vehicle. In my video coverage, the title reads “Wekfest Style Show” since the layout I felt best portrayed what the US does south of the border.
In 2024, I will try to make it to the Calgary version as I have always found that different vehicles make it to the southern venues. It is always a challenge for organizers to step up their game each year and for many, the entries are familiar but the show can only get bigger and better from here.
Until next time, Individuality Uncompromised.
Regards,
Travis
Ryoko Kings 