This Saturday, families in and around Momence can get up close with big machines at a free community event that mixes hands-on play with real-world learning. Touch-a-Truck at Good Shepherd Manor runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., giving children and adults a chance to explore vehicles and meet the people who operate them.
Organizers are bringing together an array of equipment — from fire engines and semis to farm machinery — so visitors can climb into cabs, sound horns and take photos. The setting encourages informal conversation with firefighters, farmers and other local workers, offering a practical glimpse into jobs that keep the community running.
The Department of Health & Fitness will add an obstacle course on the grounds, providing a more active element for youngsters who want to burn off energy while practicing balance and coordination.
Cleveland Guardians threaten to upend playoff favorites in October
Nutrients falling in common foods: new research raises health alarms
Admission is free; food and drinks will be available for purchase. The event address is 4129 N. State Route 1-17, Momence.
What to expect:
- Hands-on access to trucks and machinery — sit in the driver’s seat and take photos.
- Opportunities to meet and talk with first responders, farmers and equipment operators.
- A child-focused obstacle course run by the Department of Health & Fitness.
- On-site food and beverage vendors (items available for purchase).
- Free admission; family-friendly atmosphere from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Events like Touch-a-Truck serve a practical purpose beyond entertainment: they build familiarity with safety procedures, spark interest in technical and emergency careers, and create casual ways for neighbors to reconnect. For parents planning a morning outing, arriving early can help avoid crowds around the most popular vehicles.
Good Shepherd Manor’s Touch-a-Truck offers a low-cost, interactive option for local families this weekend — an opportunity to learn, play and meet community helpers in person.
