So Salem file photo 2011

On Saturday July 28th, kids of all ages will once again climb, touch and explore an expanse of cool and unique vehicles at our fourth annual Touch-a-Truck event. Our goal this year is over 200 vehicles and we will be able to boast the largest event of this type in the United States! From 10:00AM to 3:00PM at Roanoke County’s Green Hill Park, this FREE community event will allow kids and adults to sit inside, touch and learn all about vehicles they usually don’t have the opportunity to be up close and personal with. Over 10,000 spectators came out last year to our 3rd annual event and this year we anticipate even more!

Drivers and operators will be on hand to educate the public about their vehicles and answer any questions. Additional favorite activities will include Firemen’s Foam, petting zoo, food vendors, a magician and other special attractions which will add to this very special day! Parental supervision and participation is essential and cameras are highly recommended.

Almost any vehicle fits the bill for this event including Fire Trucks, Garbage Trucks, Race Cars, Back Hoes, Small Planes, Boats, Police Cars, Dump Trucks, TV Trucks and Army Cars. Also to be found are Tow Trucks, Freightliners, Helicopters, Cement Mixers, Front End Loaders, Cherry Pickers, Street Sweepers, Bob Cats, Ditch Witches, antique cars and many others.

Roanoke County’s Touch-a-Truck event is one of the largest of its kind in the Southeast and was awarded “Best New Event” in 2010 by the Virginia Recreation and Park Society. Come join Roanoke County Parks, Recreation and Tourism and our sponsors, the Salem Times Register, Fox 21/27, and Star Country for a day filled with adventures, new opportunities and memories that will last a lifetime. For more information please call 540-387-6078 ext. 0 or visit us on the web at www.RoanokeCountyParks.com.

Submitted by Wendi Schultz

*We have photos and video from last year’s Touch a Truck – here’s the link.