DOWAGIAC — If your child is mesmerized by large utility and emergency vehicles or even smaller modes of transportation, this year’s Rod & Roll Classic Auto Show provides the perfect opportunity to get up close and personal with their favorite vehicles.

According to Kris Soenen, owner of Who Knew? Consignment and chairperson of the Aug. 18 classic auto show, the new Touch a Truck event will be held within Twistee’s parking lot from 9 a.m. to noon.  Organized by the Debenwethek Parent Group of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi, vehicles will be on display from more than 10 groups, along with a canoe from Doe-wah-Jack Canoe Rental.

“The Touch a Truck showcase includes units from those who protect, build and serve our community, and others that are awesome in size,” Soenen said.  “Children can hear sirens, learn how they operate and touch their gears, get behind the wheel and meet the people who operate these vehicles on a daily basis.”

The showcase of vehicles will include those from: The Pokagon Band DNR, True’s Towing, Pokagon Tribal Police, Dowagiac fire and police departments, Cass County Road Commission, Ausra Farm Equipment, Pokagon Head Start, Spruce Ridge Golf Club, Indian Lake Fire Department and others.

Hosted by the Greater Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce, the Rod & Roll Classic Auto Show is now in its 28th year.  On-site registration opens at 7 a.m. at the festival tent on Commercial Street.  Pre-registration through Thursday, Aug. 16, is $15 at the Chamber of Commerce office, located in the train depot.  On-site registration is $20.