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Xscapers Joshua Tree Friendsgiving Convergence
November 18, 2023 - November 26, 2023
Xscapers Joshua Tree Friendsgiving Convergence
November 18th, 2023 - November 26th, 2023
Join Xscapers for an unforgettable Thanksgiving experience in Twentynine Palms, CA near Joshua Tree National Park. This event combines the joy of exploring nature’s wonders with the warmth of spending the holiday surrounded by like-minded adventurers. Embark on thrilling adventures, from hiking iconic trails to climbing breathtaking rock formations. Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the desert landscape, all while forging lifelong friendships and celebrating a delicious Friendsgiving potluck. Escape the ordinary and create cherished memories this Thanksgiving at the Xscapers Joshua Tree Friendsgiving Convergence!
Meet Your Host
Carla Geyer
Carla has been an avid member and attendee of Xscapers events since coming in hot at Annual Bash 2022. Three years on the road as a solo traveler, she has covered a lot of miles while visiting almost every western national park, friends and family. She is thrilled to invite her road family to Joshua Tree and share the strange and unique allure of the area for the holiday.
Venue
Twentynine Palms Motorsports Complex
Snuggled against the Pinto Mountains Wilderness, this venue is only five minutes from the amenities of Twentynine Palms, CA and ten minutes from the northeastern entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. An abundance of BLM camping, hiking, 4x4 trails, and desert art is available nearby, as well as the big city culture of Palm Springs within an hour.
Event Highlights
Welcome Party W/ Live Music
Get ready to kick off the event in style! Once you’re parked and settled, grab your favorite beverage and join the lively groups for a night of live music and engaging conversation. It’s the perfect opportunity to make new friends, share stories, and catch up with old ones. With the rhythm of the music filling the air, and the laughter of friends all around, this night promises to be an unforgettable start to our incredible adventure together. So, come on over, let loose, and immerse yourself in the joy of connection and camaraderie!
Potluck Brunch
Gather ’round for a scrumptious brunch potluck! Bring your favorite dish to share, and let’s enjoy a delightful morning of good food and great company. It’s the perfect opportunity to savor delicious homemade treats and connect with fellow Xscapers. Don’t miss out on this enjoyable time of mingling and brunching together!
Block Parties
Embrace the warmth of community and ignite connections during the section block parties! Come together with your neighbors, encircle the chairs, and creating a welcoming space for all. Extend the invitation to the curious passers-by, or simply wander from fire to fire. It’s the perfect chance to bond over stories, laughter, and the shared delight of spending time with one another.
Catered Dinner & Stargazing
Immerse yourself in the wonders of the night sky as we celebrate life away from the city lights! We’ll kick off the evening with a catered dinner. After the sun sets, break out your comfy chairs and hammocks as we tour the night sky with John Watkins, Adjunct Professor of Physics and Astronomy at Copper Mountain College. Leave your earthly cares behind as you learn about constellations and the cosmos in this evening of guided stargazing. .
Desert Magic Lot Crawl
As a group, we travel from section to section giving everyone the opportunity to share a snack and/or beverage with fellow Xscapers. This is an excellent time to open your rig to tours, if you’d like.
Celebrate the high desert with our Desert Magic theme! Come dressed as a cowboy, serve cactus fruit jello, or just lean into the wacky local desert art vibe with your decorations. Following the theme is not required, but costumes and games are highly encouraged!
Drive-In Movie
Get ready for a fantastic night of movie magic under the stars! Join us for a drive-in movie night with friends, where we’ll head to the local drive-in theater together. Whether you carpool or bring your own ride, it’s the coolest way to catch a flick. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show.
*Off-Site Community Activity
Friendsgiving Potluck
Get ready to kick off your Thanksgiving celebration in the most fun-filled way possible! Join us for a Friendsgiving potluck buffet where the deliciousness multiplies and the gratitude overflows. Bring your favorite dish or Nana’s special recipe to share and indulge in a feast of epic proportions. As we gather together, we’ll also set up yard games and enjoy the excitement of watching football on a big screen.
Off-Roading
Unleash your inner adventurer in the Old Dale Mining District near Joshua Tree, where offroading and exploring abandoned mines collide! Conquer rocky desert terrain, discover hidden history, and dive into the mysterious depths of forgotten tunnels, all set against the backdrop of Joshua Tree National Park. We’ll have experienced offroaders leading day trips into this stunning backcountry. Whether you’re an experienced offroader or a novice seeking a taste of adrenaline, the Old Dale Mining District area offers trails for every level.
*Off-Site Community Activity
Group Explorations
Experience captivating group trips to cool locations in the area! Explore the Old West charm of Pioneertown, discover the surreal beauty of Bombay Beach, be inspired by the vibrant Salvation Mountain, and immerse yourself in the offbeat community of Slab City. These adventures offer a glimpse into the diverse and fascinating facets of this remarkable region. Get ready to be captivated by the magic and wonder of each destination!
*Off-Site Community Activity
Onesie Night & Dance Party
It’s time to unleash your inner party animal while rocking your comfiest and quirkiest attire. Whether you’re grooving in a giraffe onesie or busting moves in a penguin ensemble, this dance party is all about fun and funky vibes. So, zip up, jump in, and let’s boogie together in the desert night, creating memories that are both wild and comfortably cozy!
Optional Add-On: Rock Climbing Experience
*Operated and led by a third-party vendor or business
Embark on a thrilling rock climbing adventure in the breathtaking Joshua Tree National Park, guided by seasoned experts who will unlock the vertical playground of majestic rock formations.
No prior rock climbing experience needed! Each tour will be led by local rock climbing guides who are certified and specialize in the beautiful boulder terrain of the Mojave Desert. Both options include all equipment and are appropriate for ages 6 and up. Routes are tailored to the climbers’ abilities. If we have enough interest, we can accommodate a separate tour for intermediate level climbers.
Half-Day: $75 per person (Ages 6+)
Schedule
Saturday 11/18
Arrival Happy Hour
Welcome Part w/ Live Music
Sunday 11/19
Potluck Brunch
Optional Add-On: Rock Climbing
Off-Roading
Block Parties
Monday 11/20
Catered Dinner
Stargazing
Tuesday 11/21
Desert Magic Lot Crawl
Wednesday 11/22
Drive In Movie
Thursday 11/23
Happy Thanksgiving!
5K Turkey Trot
Flag Football
Friendsgiving Potluck
Friday 11/24
Group Explorations to Bombay Beach, Salvation Mt., & Slab City
Free Night
Saturday 11/25
Pioneertown
Joshua Tree National Park Hikes
Horseshoe Tournament
Onesie Night & Dance Party
Sunday 11/26
GTFO
*Events/ activities are subject to change without notice.
Participation in activities organized as part of this event is entirely optional. Attendees are under no obligation to engage in any of the scheduled activities. The decision to participate in any event-related activities is at the sole discretion of the attendee.
Additionally, please note the following regarding certain types of activities associated with this event:
1. Optional Add-On Activities: Some activities have been coordinated directly by event organizers as optional add-ons, complete with specific rates and group arrangements. However, these activities are operated and led by third-party vendors or businesses not affiliated with the event organizers.
2. Off-Site Community Activities: Certain off-site activities are community-oriented and self-led experiences. These activities are not directly hosted by event organizers, and attendees are encouraged to participate at their discretion.
3. Transportation Responsibility: Attendees are required to provide their transportation to and from the event and any associated activities during the event. The event organizers will not be providing transportation services or making transportation arrangements on behalf of attendees unless specifically stated.
By attending this event, you acknowledge and accept the terms and conditions outlined above. In addition, you must agree to our “Release & Wavier of Liability” at the time of registration.
FAQs & WTHs
There will be no showers available. There will be a minimal number of portable toilets onsite.
We welcome your furry friends! If they are outside your rig, they must be leashed at all times. Please pick up after your pets. Please note that many of the planned events will take us offsite for 3 or more hours.
Of course! We love kids. We just ask that all kids are under the supervision of their parents/ guardians at all times during the event.
We will have dumpsters on site. Please break down all trash to make it as small as possible, especially boxes!
There will be no early arrival or late departure available for this event.
100% Dry camping only. We will be parked in a dirt lot. Standard sites sizes for this event will be a minimum of 25′ x 50′.
For this event we will be breaking down parking into different sections.
Solar Section: This section is for those with full solar set ups who do not need to rely on the use of a generator. Generator use will only be authorized in this section during times of inclement weather. If you think you will need to run your generator for any reason during the event (outside of inclement weather), the solar section is NOT FOR YOU! With that being said, even if you park in the solar section, you may still hear generators running in other sections. We park close together and that is just the way it is.
Solo Section: Are you a lone wonderer? Would you like to be near other lone wanderers? This section is for you! There will be designated generator hours in this section.
Family Section: Do you have kids? Do you want the opportunity for your kids to play with other kids without having to go very far? You should check out the family section! There will be designated generator hours in this section.
General Section: If none of the above apply to your travel situation, the general section is for you! There will be designated generator hours in this section.
All sites will be first come, first served. If you would like to park next to someone specific, you should arrive at the same time, and we will do our best to park you near each other.
There is no water or dump station available at this location. It is IMPERATIVE that you arrive with your black and gray tanks empty and your water tank full.
Cell phone signal is strong for all major carriers.
There will be no mailing address available for this event.
Convergences are long and can be physically, mentally, and emotionally draining. It is important to practice self-care throughout the entire event. Here are some things to remember:
PRACTICE SELF-CARE
- Always be hydrating. Bring your own water wherever you go and be sure to get enough electrolytes.
- Get enough sleep.
- Eat healthy, nourishing food.
- If you don’t know what’s in something, it’s best not to drink or eat it.
- Drink responsibly. It is easy to overindulge when you know your RV is just a few steps away but becoming overly intoxicated can be dangerous for numerous reasons.
- Don’t hesitate to take a day off. Check out the event schedule and consider choosing a day to sit out and allow yourself to recover.
- Dress comfortably. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear that will keep you comfortable throughout the event. Consider the weather conditions and dress in layers if necessary.
- Make a plan. Stick with friends throughout the event. Establish meeting points in case you get separated and keep others informed of your whereabouts.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Be observant of the people around you and any potential hazards. Report any suspicious activity to event staff or volunteers.
- Keep and eye on your beverage at all times, Additionally, lidded cups and bottles help keep dust and other unwanted items out of your drink.
TIPS FOR ASSESSING A POTENTIALLY UNSAFE SITUATION:
As much as we would like to believe that all attendees are good and have our best interests in mind, Xscapers are not immune to the presence of sh*tty people. Additionally, we are not immune to the potential dangers of drug and alcohol use and misuse.
If it’s an emergency call 911!
- If you suddenly feel like you’re becoming extremely intoxicated and/or suspect that your drink may have been tampered with, immediately inform event staff, or an event volunteer, or ask people to help you by calling the attention of one of these team members. Do not go off alone with anyone. Stay in or get to a group area if possible.
- If you see someone who appears to be overly intoxicated, ask them if they need help. Particularly if they are being led away by someone who doesn’t appear intoxicated. Even if you are unsure of the situation, we recommend checking in. Simply walking up and saying “Hey! How’s it going?” gives you a chance to offer help if you think it’s needed.
- If you or someone around you needs help, seek out event staff or volunteer. They are there to ensure your safety and will assist you.
CONSENT
Consent is the cornerstone of a healthy community. It’s simple: whether it’s a potential sexual encounter, physical touch of any kind, something requiring permission that will radically alter the experience of another person, or involves recording someone’s image or voice, you are responsible for getting verbal consent before engaging. It is neither ethical nor acceptable to proceed without that person’s awareness and clear consent. An impaired person cannot give consent. Children (anyone under 18) cannot give consent, you must speak with their parent/ guardian. Be aware: Silence does not equal consent. Coercion does not equal consent.
It is a felony to give drugs to a person without their knowledge or consent (even if it is meant in ‘good fun’). Don’t do it. Ever!
If you see someone who needs help, offer it. If you see someone being treated any way but wonderfully, step in and be an advocate or contact a staff member or volunteer. We are all in this together.
IT’S A ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY!
The Escapees RV Club will not hesitate to involve law enforcement. At the very least, you can kiss your club membership goodbye for any violation of our event rules and membership code of conduct.
CRISIS SUPPORT AND RESOURCES
If it’s an emergency call 911
List of non-emergency crisis numbers to call (available 24/7)
- National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
988 - National Sexual Assault Hotline
1.800.656.4673 - National Domestic Violence Hotline
1.800.799.7233 or TTY 1.800.787.3224 - Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor
The main reasons for you to attend a convergence should be to have fun and meet other like-minded RVers. Networking and making potential business leads is a natural result of being part of an awesome community. We don’t want the Xscapers community to be bombarded or feel like they are a commodity. If the main reason you are wanting to attend an Xscapers event is to sell something, market to attendees, or simply to generate content we would ask that you contact us directly for corporate sponsorship.
If tickets for this event are sold out, you can fill out THIS FORM to be added to the waitlist.
If we must cancel the event, or your attendance at the event for any reason, including due to local health department restrictions, such as those restricting the size of gatherings, you will receive a full refund of your registration fees.
Cancellations 60+ days prior to the event: You may cancel your registration for a full refund minus a $50 administrative fee any time before 11:59pm Central on 09/19/2023. Cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to registration@escapees.com
Cancellations 59-30 days prior to the event: You may cancel your registration for a 50% refund of purchase price before 11:59pm Central on 10/19/2023. Cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to registration@escapees.com
No refunds will be given for cancellations after 11:59pm CST on 10/19/2023. All ticket sales on and after 10/19/2023 are final.
No problem! Just email convergences@escapees.com with your question, and we’ll do our best to get you an answer.
Is an Xscapers Convergence Right for Me?
Xscapers was formed to bring Escapees RV Club back to its original roots of supporting RVers who are working from the road. At Convergences, you will find a community of active and free-spirited individuals with a passion for travel and adventure.
About 80% of Xscapers have full-time jobs they do remotely or seasonally. This means we typically don’t hold activities during standard work hours (with the exception of Annual Bash). Starting later in the day also means later nights. We have found that this can be a factor in deciding what event program people attend.
We try to give the most fun and entertainment value at an affordable price. One way we do that is by boondocking as much as possible. Our events are also a great way for newbie boondockers to learn from experienced ones. We try to divide our camping areas into those who have solar and those who want to run generators when possible.
Xscapers is an inclusive community, connected through the bond of RVing. This means we welcome people from all walks of life, no matter race, sexual orientation, political/religious views, lifestyle or RV type. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.
Registration Includes
8 Nights of Dry Camping at the TwentyNine Palms Motorsports Complex
Live Music
Xscapers Infamous Lot Crawl
Catered Dinner
Guided Stargazing
Group Exploration Trips
Collectors Event Sticker
Event Host w/ the Most
Standard Ticket Pricing
You must be a member of Escapees RV Club to attend this Convergence.
-
Dry Camping (Includes 1 Ticket) $250
Price includes 1rig/ 1 adult.
Standard sites are a min of 25' x 50' -
Additional Adult Ticket $50
Additional adults must be staying onsite in the same rig.
-
Kids Tickets $15
Ages 10 -18. Kids under 10 may attend for free.
-
Optional Add-On: Half-Day Rock Climbing Course $75
Activity will take place off-site. Ages 6+
Tickets go on sale Aug. 2nd, 2023 at 11:00 AM Central
*Prices are subject to change.
*Tickets must be purchased online through this website.
*Tickets are non-transferable.
After Registering
You will receive confirmation of your registration to your given email address within a few minutes of purchase. It will include a link to the event Facebook group. Also, be on the look out for additional e-mails as the event draws closer.
Cancellation Policy & Fees
If we must cancel the event, or your attendance at the event for any reason, including due to local health department restrictions, such as those restricting the size of gatherings, you will receive a full refund of your registration fees.
Cancellations 60+ days prior to the event: You may cancel your registration for a full refund minus a $50 administrative fee any time before 11:59pm Central on 09/19/2023. Cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to registration@escapees.com
Cancellations 59-30 days prior to the event: You may cancel your registration for a 50% refund of purchase price before 11:59pm Central on 10/19/2023. Cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to registration@escapees.com
No refunds will be given for cancellations after 11:59pm CST on 10/19/2023. All ticket sales on and after 10/19/2023 are final.
By registering for this event, you are agreeing to the following:
As an attendee, you assume all risk and danger relating to your personal property, RV and attendance at the event, whether occurring prior to, during, or after the event. In the event of loss or theft, no claim will be made upon Escapees, its volunteers, employees or agents.
Volunteers may be directing and assisting you in your parking areas. However, it is the driver of the vehicle who is ultimately responsible for avoiding obstacles or dangerous situations and is solely responsible for any damage to one’s property or the property of others.
As an attendee at this event, you are granting your permission to be filmed, videotaped, audiotaped, or photographed, and granting to Escapees RV Club the full use of any such recordings or images without compensation.
By registering, you will also receive occasional email notifications of future Convergences; however, you can opt-out of these notifications at any time.
In addition to the above, you will be required during registration to agree that you will help provide a safe environment for everyone by complying with our health and safety rules, and to release Escapees RV Club from liability should you become ill during the event.
