WALCOTT, Iowa — What better way to spend a July day than at the Walcott Truckers Jamboree?
And that is exactly what 42,812 drivers and their families as well as local residents did July 12-14 as the Iowa 80 Truckstop — better known as the World’s Largest Truckstop — celebrated America’s truckers during the 39th annual rendition of the summer festival, which has welcomed visitors, rain or shine, since 1979.
Visitors came from 22 different states and one Canadian province to display their trucks.
“The Walcott Truckers Jamboree is our chance to thank all of the men and women who deliver the goods we need every day,” said Delia Moon Meier, senior vice president of Iowa 80. “My family and all of the Iowa 80 team are proud to be able to serve them since 1964.”
During the three days, guests enjoyed more than 150 exhibits; a Super Truck Beauty Contest with 91 contestants; an antique truck display with over 170 vehicles; an Iowa pork chop cookout; trucker Olympics; carnival games; and free concerts.
Logan Mize performed July 12 courtesy of CAT Scale. Southern rock legends The Kentucky Headhunters hit the stage on July 13 to a crowd of thousands and were presented by Mobil Delvac.
Both Thursday and Friday nights included fireworks displays, a truck light show and plenty of family fun.
Saturday afternoon Eric Chesser entertained the crowd just prior to the Super Truck Beauty Contest awards ceremony and Antique Truck Plaque presentation.
“The Walcott Truckers Jamboree celebrates America’s truck drivers,” said Heather DeBaillie, Iowa 80 Truckstop’s marketing director. “We are fortunate to be able to hold such an event that not only honors truck drivers and the trucking industry, but also showcases trucking in a positive light to the general public.”
Iowa 80 Trucking Museum also celebrated the 100th birthday of its 1918 Independent truck (made in nearby downtown Davenport, Iowa) during the Jamboree with birthday cake and balloons at the museum.
Next year’s 40th Anniversary Walcott Truckers Jamboree will be held July 11-13.
For complete results of all the contests, visit www.truckersjamboree.com.
The Trucker News Staff produces engaging content for not only TheTrucker.com, but also The Trucker Newspaper, which has been serving the trucking industry for more than 30 years. With a focus on drivers, the Trucker News Staff aims to provide relevant, objective content pertaining to the trucking segment of the transportation industry. The Trucker News Staff is based in Little Rock, Arkansas.
