Tons o' Trucks Roll Into St. John Medical Center Saturday

On an average day, seeing 69 vehicles in the St. John Medical Center parking lot means business as usual. However, when a Midwest Monster Truck, race car, pink princess limousine, Mopar Ram Runner and the Pistons Hoop Shoot Truck are among the vehicles in the lot, it can only mean one thing: ’s Tons O’ Trucks & Wheeled Wonders.

Now in its 12th season, Tons O’ Trucks & Wheeled Wonders is the premiere summer event of the parks and recreation department. This year's event will be held on June 4.

“Tons O' Trucks is the first of our 10 free family events for the summer season,” said Parks and Recreation Director Sal DiCaro. “With 69 vehicles, and many other attractions on site, there really is something for everyone. It’s a great way to kick off the summer. The weather forecast looks good, the staff is excited, so we look forward to seeing a good number of families out there on Saturday.”

More than 6,000 people attended last year’s event and Parks and Recreation Program Coordinator Michelle Duda said she expects that number to be matched, if not increased this year.

“The Egg-stravaganza and Halloween Hoopla, are both seasonal parties that have a fee associated with them, and can only accommodate 650-700 people,” Duda said. “We will always keep Tons O' Trucks free and strive to accommodate everyone who wants to attend. This year, we have rented two large school buses for shuttles and secured more off-site parking at Nachi Machining, which should accommodate parking for everyone.”

The event itself will take place from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. in the parking lot.

Children and their parents can get up close and personal with dozens of vehicles, including monster trucks, fire engines and a Zamboni, as well as enjoy bounce houses, balloon artists, face painters and strolling entertainment.

“We have things to see and do for every age,” Duda said. “The vehicles are as thrilling as an amusement park ride for some kids. They are so excited to climb on and explore so many different–and many times interactive–vehicles. I think our guests always know they can expect some new and exciting additions to this event.”

Food and drinks will be available for purchase on site and event sponsors will hand out giveaways throughout the event.