Children can explore unique vehicles at Touch a Truck on Saturday in Northbrook

The Northbrook Park District’s annual Touch a Truck event will feature a variety of vehicles from local organizations and businesses, along with two special guests: a replica Ford Model T with calliope wind instrument recently donated to the park district, and an ice cream truck from Huntington National Bank.

The free family-friendly event takes place from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept. 20, in the parking lot of UL Solutions, 333 Pfingsten Road, in Northbrook.

Children can see, touch and explore a variety of trucks and emergency vehicles, and families can walk around and learn about different local organizations. There will also be a toy car activity for kids, so families can stop by the park district’s marketing table to get a toy car for their children.

Recreation Supervisor Maria Warren said she is thrilled to bring Touch a Truck to the Northbrook community this fall.

“This event is a great opportunity to see vehicles that children get so excited about, including unusual ones,” she said. “Firetrucks, police cars, garbage trucks and taxis are among the first things that children learn to identify as they grow up. It’s really special for children to see these vehicles up close, and maybe even get excited about something they have not seen before!”

Other Touch a Truck vehicle owners also said they are looking forward to showcasing their wheels to the community.

“It’s a chance to show kids and parents the tools that we use every day, including the bucket truck that helps keep trees healthy and yards safe,” said Tina Freeman of Advanced Tree Care.

An American Taxi driver will bring one of the company’s few remaining taxis sporting the original decaling, company representative Samantha Marnell said.

“I am looking forward to seeing the enjoyment and entertainment that the children will experience during the event,” she said. “I am in hopes that the children and families get to learn a little bit about how a taxi car operates and how it's fundamental to their future and everyday life, as it is a means of transportation to all.”

Electric vehicle maker Rivian will bring a Rivian R1T pickup truck, company representative Nate Leppink said. The best part of participating in Touch a Truck is “using our vehicles as jungle gyms for kids to explore,” Leppink said.

The event is sponsored by Huntington National Bank and How About Learning. The full list of participating organizations/vehicles is:

• First Student (school bus)

• Advanced Tree Care (bucket truck)

• Village of Northbrook (fire, police and public works departments)

• Rivian (pickup truck)

• Grosse Point Towing (towing truck)

• American Taxi Company (taxi)

• Northbrook Park District (mini excavator, Olympia ice resurfacer and replica Ford Model T with calliope wind instrument)

• Huntington National Bank (ice cream truck)

Adult supervision is required, and cameras are recommended. Note that this event includes many loud noises, horns and sirens. This event will occur rain or shine. For more information or questions, visit nbparks.org/events/touchtruck or call (847) 291-2993.

Established in 1927, the mission of the Northbrook Park District is to enhance the community by providing outstanding services, parks and facilities through environmental, social and financial stewardship.