The harsh wasteland is often depicted in long-running franchises, characterized by brutal climates, scarcity of resources, and the constant struggle for survival, which has attracted a large fanbase through films like Mad Max and games such as Fallout. Would you like to have an experience that immerses you in such a world? Rest assured, you are not alone in this. Enter “Wasteland,” an event taking place over four days in September at the Mojave Desert, east of Bakersfield, California.
This event gathers thousands of participants every year, merging the best elements of “Mad Max,” “Fallout,” and “Dune” to create an immersive post-apocalyptic world, where civilization has crumbled and humanity is more savage than ever to ensure their survival. Below are stunning images from the “Wasteland” event in 2016, attended by over 2,500 people:
From the moment you enter, you can feel that “Wasteland” is an event not for the faint of heart
A participant dressed as Immortan Joe from “Mad Max: Fury Road”. This event also awards prizes for the best costumes and the most authentic outfits
Over 300 custom-built vehicles participated in the “Wasteland” event in 2016. It takes 2-3 years to prepare each perfect vehicle for this event
A “jugger” battle featuring a mix of various sports like rugby, gladiatorial combat, and other activities. Participants wore protective gear and carried weapons to ensure their safety
Recreating a classic scene from the “Mad Max: Fury Road” film
A duel in the “Thunderdome,” constructed by a “barbarian” tribe known as Death Guild. The combat format is 1vs1 with improvised weapons made from PVC pipes
A participant in a Mad Max-themed warrior costume with an impressive microphone staff
Remote-controlled cars are a very popular activity at “Wasteland.” Custom-built vehicles are created to fit the theme while being functional and able to collide with each other
A customized delivery truck equipped with spikes and hefty armor. Such vehicles are required to be built to ensure safety for the general population
A participant in a unique costume with a dangerous-looking bazooka
Not only the exterior is customized, but the interiors of the vehicles are also modified and decorated to reflect the post-apocalyptic theme
In “Wasteland,” not every vehicle is a car or motorcycle, but “buggy” vehicles are also quite common
A vehicle with the insignia of Immortan Joe’s army
The costumes are created from various materials, reflecting the rugged survival style of the wasteland
Motorcycles line up in preparation for the race. Many riders wear protective gear, resembling the tough aesthetic of the wasteland
A vehicle designed with unique features, including a fuselage made from airplane parts and equipped with 20-mm Gatling guns
The “Battle Cage” robot fights are incredibly unique and entertaining
The vehicles often resemble ‘mobile fortresses,’ designed for maximum impact and aesthetic appeal
A driver with a leather mask, sitting in the “Lone Wolf” vehicle from “Mad Max 2.” This vehicle won the best vehicle award at the event
Vehicles are lined up to prepare for the race. Participants can creatively customize their vehicles, adding spikes, armor, and other features
A participant dressed as a powerful leader, showcasing their strength and costume creativity
The “Wasteland” event showcases unique and creative costumes, many of which feature spikes and armor
A vehicle designed for advertising purposes, blending fun and creativity
A participant striking a pose in front of their custom vehicle before the race
The weather, with low temperatures in the desert, often prompts participants to group together for warmth
Source: Wired
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