Now entering its third year, the event is expanding significantly in both size and location. This year’s festival will move deeper into downtown Rock Falls, utilizing multiple blocks of East Second Street and East First Street, along with additional nearby areas, including the lower dam and surrounding parking lots. Organizers said the expansion was made possible through support from the City of Rock Falls and downtown business owners eager to help create a larger community festival atmosphere.
The larger footprint allows organizers to continue increasing the number of attractions, with last year’s event featuring approximately 170 vehicles. This year, organizers expect more than 200 attractions to fill the downtown streets, ranging from emergency response vehicles and construction equipment to utility trucks and specialty displays from across the region.
One of the biggest draws this year will once again be the addition of movie- and television-replica vehicles. Organizers shared that several iconic vehicles are already confirmed to attend, including a Twister tribute truck inspired by the original film, Knight Rider’s KITT, Smokey and the Bandit replicas, the General Lee, and a Ghostbusters Ecto-1 vehicle. More surprise additions may still be announced leading up to the event.
The festival will also feature two monster trucks this year after organizers previously struggled to secure one consistently. Last year’s planned monster truck appearance was canceled due to mechanical issues, making this year’s expanded lineup especially exciting for organizers and attendees alike.
Brick Boss explained that part of the reason he became involved with the event was the opportunity to help create a larger community-centered attraction for Rock Falls. While neighboring communities host major annual festivals, he felt Touch a Truck offered Rock Falls something unique that families of all ages could enjoy together.
Although the event is centered around children, organizers emphasized that adults often enjoy the experience just as much. From nostalgic movie vehicles to hands-on interactions with massive equipment, the event has become a destination for the entire family.
The giveaways have also grown considerably since the event first launched. During the first year, organizers gave away two ride-on toy vehicles. Last year, that number increased to six. This year, organizers are preparing to give away five electric scooters along with eight Power Wheels-style vehicles throughout the day.
To improve the process, organizers adjusted the raffle system so attendees can enter throughout the event instead of remaining tied to a single drawing. Winners will be selected approximately every half hour.
Food vendors will also play a major role in this year’s event. Returning favorites include the Rock Falls Eagles Club cookout, Kokomo’s shaved ice, and Main Squeeze lemonade. Additional vendors will offer barbecue, Mexican food, cotton candy, and soft-serve ice cream, helping transform the event into a full downtown festival experience.
Organizers also noted the strong support from downtown businesses, many of which are expected to offer specials and additional activities during the event. Several businesses along Second Street have embraced the opportunity to welcome thousands of visitors directly into the downtown district.
Another important feature returning this year is the sensory-friendly hour. After receiving positive feedback last year, organizers will once again begin the event with a quieter opening hour from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. The reduced sirens, horns, and flashing lights help create a more comfortable environment for attendees with sensory sensitivities.
Touch a Truck of Rock Falls will take place Saturday, May 30, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in downtown Rock Falls. Organizers encourage the public to follow the event on Facebook for updates as additional attractions continue to be announced. As the event continues to grow, organizers said its success comes from the community itself. With support from local businesses, volunteers, emergency personnel, sponsors, and families throughout the Sauk Valley, Touch a Truck has become one of the region’s most anticipated annual events
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