The PKY Truck Beauty Championship will return to the Mid-America Trucking Show for the 34th time March 26-28 at the Kentucky Expo Center in Louisville.
To kick off the custom show-truck season, owner-operators, custom builders, fleets and enthusiasts are invited from across North America to compete, observe, and celebrate the camaraderie among truckers and innovation on display in owners' heavy-duty trucks.
Those interested in competing can register through Feb. 15, or until 175 trucks are registered.
“The PKY Truck Beauty Championship is more than a competition -- it’s an industry spectacle that brings together builders, owners, drivers and fans to showcase the best in truck design and craftsmanship,” said Toby Young, MATS President. “We’re excited to welcome the custom truck enthusiast community back to Louisville in 2026 and raise the bar even higher.”
[Related: Dozens of trucks among winners in 2025 PKY Truck Beauty Championship]
In addition to the multitude of awards that come with PKY Championship, the event also includes the Big Rig Build-Off, the PKY Lights Show, and PKY Parade.
- PKY Lights Show -- Thursday, March 26, dark- 9:30 p.m., Lot N: A nighttime display where show trucks light up the show grounds, highlighting custom lighting, designs, and unique features.
- PKY Parade Presented by Big Rig Videos -- Saturday, March 28, 7:15-8:15 p.m., Parking Lot Outside Circle of Champions: A celebratory procession of competing and featured trucks around the show grounds, giving attendees a chance to see each rig up close and appreciate the artistry and detail of every entry.
- PKY Awards Ceremony -- Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m.: The culminating event recognizing winners across multiple categories, including Best of Show and People’s Choice, honoring the skill, creativity, and dedication of the builders.
- Big Rig Build-Off: A head-to-head competition where elite custom truck builders showcase their craftsmanship, creativity, and innovation, vying for top honors in one of the trucking industry’s most prestigious contests.
[Related: 'Better than a horse and buggy': 1935 International a family heirloom]
