Village of Manhattan To Host Touch-A-Truck, Open House

MANHATTAN, IL — The Village of Manhattan invites residents and visitors to attend a fun, free, and interactive Touch-A-Truck Event and Open House on Saturday, May 9, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Village Hall, 260 Market Place, Manhattan, IL.

The family-friendly event offers a unique, hands-on experience for all ages. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a wide variety of vehicles, including fire trucks, police cars, public works equipment, a SWAT truck, and more. Guests can climb inside, honk horns, and learn how these vehicles are used to serve and protect the community each day.

Visitors will also have the chance to meet local first responders and public works professionals, including firefighters, police officers, and paramedics, and learn more about the important work they do.

"In Manhattan, we take great pride in the people and services that keep our community safe and running smoothly," said Mayor Mike Adrieansen. "As one of our most popular events, it kicks off the season and gives residents, especially families, a fun and meaningful way to connect with our staff, explore Village facilities, and see the important work that happens behind the scenes every day."

In addition to the vehicles, the event will feature face painting, balloon artists, and guided tours of Village Hall. Guests can sit behind the Mayor’s desk for a photo opportunity and visit the Police Station for a behind-the-scenes look at its operations.

A variety of food trucks will be on-site, including Keke’s Donuts, Kona Ice, Nicky V’s, and Taco Giselle, offering delicious options for attendees to purchase.

A special addition, is a showing of the “Route 66 Roadshow Experience” which will take place in the Village Hall Meeting Room at 12:30 p.m., celebrating the 100th anniversary of Route 66.