Great Canadian Truck Show at Grand Bend Motorplex

There’s something impressive about seeing a big rig up close. The towering chrome, polished tanks, custom paint and unmistakable rumble of a diesel engine have a way of stopping people in their tracks. For one summer weekend, truck enthusiasts, families and curious visitors gather at the legendary Grand Bend Motorplex to celebrate all things trucking during the Great Canadian Truck Show.

 

Set for July 17 and 18, 2026, the event combines a traditional truck show with the excitement of motorsports, creating a unique experience that has quickly become one of the most anticipated summer events in Ontario’s trucking community. Unlike many truck shows that focus solely on static displays, the Grand Bend event adds a healthy dose of adrenaline by giving spectators the opportunity to watch big rigs and race trucks make passes down the quarter-mile drag strip.

 

As visitors stroll through the grounds, they’ll find rows of meticulously maintained transport trucks, custom semis and working rigs that represent the pride and craftsmanship of their owners. Every truck tells a story. Some are owner-operated highway workhorses that spend thousands of kilometres on the road each month, while others are showpieces featuring elaborate lighting, custom interiors and eye-catching paint schemes.

 

The event is organized by a dedicated and passionate group of volunteers. Kevin Klein is one of those who works hard on top of his full-time job to make the show special. The Great Canadian Truck Show started back in 2017, but Klein has been doing this for a couple of decades. The show started at the Varney Speedway, and eventually wound its way to Grand Bend, which has become a mecca for motorsports.

 

The show sees an average of around 125 trucks at the show and shine. Last year was the first year for racing, and was a huge hit with the fans. It started with 10 trucks, and Klein is hoping for even more entries this year. 

 

On Friday afternoon and evening, the track is available for anyone to bring their truck to take a run on. The full race schedule takes place on Saturday. 

 

What makes the event especially appealing is its location. Grand Bend Motorplex is one of Canada’s premier motorsports facilities, hosting major drag racing, motorcycle and automotive events throughout the season. The facility features a quarter-mile drag strip, extensive spectator areas, camping facilities and on-site amenities that make it ideal for a full weekend getaway.

Whether you're a lifelong trucking enthusiast, a motorsports fan or simply someone looking for an unusual and entertaining summer outing, the Great Canadian Truck Show delivers a memorable experience. It’s a celebration of the people, machines and industry that help keep Canada moving. Follow them on Facebook. 70292 Grand Bend Line, Grand Bend