Semi truck shows and events offer a front-row seat to the fascinating world of big rigs, including the innovation and community spirit surrounding the trucking industry. Whether you’re an enthusiast who admires the craftsmanship of custom rigs or a family looking for a fun outing, there are no shortage of ways to experience these impressive machines up close.

In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the most popular semi-truck shows and events across the country. We’ll also highlight trucking museums where you can delve deeper into the history and evolution of these vehicles.

Attend Truck Shows and Fairs Near You

For the ultimate truck show experience, mark your calendar for the Mid-American Trucking Show (MATS). Held annually at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Kentucky, MATS attracts over 56,000 attendees from all walks of life. There are more than 800 exhibits that span over 1 million square feet, and more than 40 events that feature trucks of all kinds.

One of the highlights for truck enthusiasts is the Paul K. Young (PKY) Truck Beauty Championship, where you can see jaw-dropping custom semi show trucks that display impressive amounts of creativity and craftsmanship. Catch the PKY truck parade or listen to live music at the free MATS Concert on Friday night. Last year the concert included The Steel Woods, an American country rock band, and Tony Justice, a country singer. The 2025 MATS is scheduled for March  27–29.

The National Association of Show Trucks (NAST) hosts additional events that bring truck owners, drivers, and enthusiasts together. Their 2025 calendar includes MATS as well as the following events:

• June 21–23 at Kuhnle Motorsports Park in Thompson, Ohio
• September 12–14 at Richard Crane Memorial Truck Show in St. Ignace, Michigan
• October 25–26 at Draggin & Pullin in The Pines in Lufkin, TX
  
  

Another great place to see big rigs is the Walcott Truckers Jamboree, which takes place at Iowa 80, the world’s largest truck stop. The 2025 schedule includes an antique truck display, a super trucks beauty contest, an Iowa pork chop cookout, live music, trucker olympics, and fireworks. Plus there are over 150 exhibits to explore, and admission is free! You can attend The 2025 Walcott Trucker’s Jamboree July 10th-12th.

Even if you can’t make the event, the truck stop itself is well worth visiting. Their gift store is filled with truck paraphernalia, keepsakes, clothes, and toys, and the Super Truck Showroom has truck accessories of all kinds. When you work up an appetite, you can choose from nine restaurant options, including the Iowa 80 Kitchen: a full-service restaurant open 24/7.

State and County Fairs with Truck Exhibits

State and county fairs often showcase big rigs, making them a must-visit for truck enthusiasts and families alike. These events combine rides, games, and entertainment with impressive truck displays and activities. Many fairs feature truck or tractor pulls, where skilled drivers compete to haul heavy loads. Others showcase custom and vintage trucks in displays or visual competitions that celebrate the artistry and history of trucking. For kids, interactive experiences like climbing into the driver’s seat of a big rig or enjoying mini truck rides can spark curiosity and excitement. Check out the fairs in your area—you might just find some truck-related fun waiting for you!

Truck Museums Across the US

Museums are another great way to learn more about big rigs and see them in person. Here are a few truck museums in the United States.

Iowa 80 Trucking Museum 

The Iowa 80 Trucking Museum, located in Walcott, Iowa, showcases the history of trucking in America. The museum showcases Bill Moon’s extensive collection of antique trucks and memorabilia. (He’s the creator of the Iowa 80 Truckstop discussed earlier, so you know his love of the industry runs deep.) Visitors can explore a variety of rare and unique trucks, each with a distinct story. The museum also includes the REO Theater, where short films explain the evolution of trucking, offering an educational experience for all ages. Beyond its impressive truck displays, the museum houses collections of antique toy trucks, petroliana, trucking company hat pins, and chauffeur badges. 

National Auto and Truck Museum

The National Auto and Truck Museum (NATMUS) in Auburn, Indiana, is another great option that offers a glimpse into automotive history. Located in the remaining original factory buildings of the Auburn Automobile Company—structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places— the museum provides a unique backdrop. Exhibits include Early 1900’s cars, cars from the 20s and 30s, muscle cars, and trucks. 

Highlights of the collection feature the 1903 Ford Model A (serial number 121), a 1969 Plymouth Barracuda with the Ball Stud Hemi prototype, a 1929 Cord L-29, and a Texaco Oil Truck. In addition to its exhibits, the museum serves as a unique venue for events, weddings, and receptions.

Community Trucking Events and Parades

Another option to see big rigs up close is through community events and parades. Trucking parades often showcase an impressive lineup of big rigs, vintage trucks, and custom vehicles on their own or decorated to match the theme of the event. Holiday parades sometimes feature trucks adorned with festive lights and decorations, too.

Touch-a-truck events are particularly popular with families, offering an interactive experience where children and adults can explore various types of trucks up close. From semi trucks and big rigs, to fire engines, dump trucks and construction vehicles, participants get the chance to climb inside, honk horns, and meet the professionals who operate these vehicles. Each event offers a unique experience, so check your local area to see what’s available near you.

Plan your Semi Truck Show Adventure Today

Semi-truck shows, events, and museums provide an incredible way to connect with the trucking world. Whether you're a seasoned fan of big rigs or discovering their charm for the first time, these events and destinations offer memorable experiences. So plan your next adventure and celebrate the trucks and their hardworking drivers that keep our country moving. There’s no better time to dive into the dynamic world of semi trucks and show trucks!

Consider a Career in the Trucking Industry

If you love trucks, have you thought about a career in the industry? At Pride Transport, we’re a family-run business that values and respects every member of our team. If you’re ready to hit the road, we have open driving positions waiting for you. Prefer to stay behind the scenes? We also have opportunities at our headquarters that play a crucial role in keeping our trucks moving. No matter where you fit in, you’ll be an essential part of the Pride Transport family. Check out our open HQ positions today!