The third annual Chillicothe Kenworth Truck Parade is not just a long line of pretty trucks – it’s also like a family reunion from across the country.
I visited the “staging” for the parade at the Ross County Fairgrounds Friday and got the story from coordinators and Kenworth Chillicothe employees Carie Wolfe (process engineer) and Jack Schmitt (assistant plant manager).
Many Kenworth trucks were parked on display, but owners were also lounging at their campers or under a large tent, enjoying take-in food…or cake, presumably birthday cake – last year was the 100th anniversary of the company, and this year is the 50th anniversary of the Ross County factory.
Drivers were also receiving their orders for the parade Saturday evening, as well as getting participation plaques.
They say about 500 people attended the parade last year, and again it will end with a concert on a moving stage that will stop at Second and Paint streets and play until about midnight.
The parade of 62 trucks starts at 8:45pm sharp, with truck lights being highlighted by the setting sun in a loop of downtown streets: Yoctangee, Water, Mulberry, and Second.
In the video interview, hear what all was happening at the fairgrounds Friday, what will happen with “Family Day” at the factory Saturday, and in the parade Saturday evening.
From the Ross-Chillicothe Convention & Visitors Bureau calendar entry:
Join Kenworth for its third annual Kenworth Truck Parade and 50-year celebration of building “The World’s Best Trucks” right here in Chillicothe. There will be over 50 new, classic, and customized Kenworth semi-trucks, most originally built here at the Chillicothe plant.
Professional drivers from all over the US and Canada will be participating with their beautiful trucks. The public is welcome to line the streets downtown to see this amazing parade that will kick off at 8:45 p.m.
Find more in the article on the Scioto Post, including a video interview.
Kevin Coleman covers local government and culture for the Scioto Post and iHeart Media Southern Ohio. For stories or questions, contact Kevin Coleman or the iHeart Southern Ohio Newsroom.
1 of 4 Chillicothe Kenworth Parade coordinators and employees Carie Wolfe (process engineer) and Jack Schmitt (assistant plant manager).
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