One of trucking’s most recognized custom show competitions is set to return to Louisville this spring, bringing together owner-operators, builders, fleets, and fans from across North America.
The PKY Truck Beauty Championship will take place March 26 through March 28 at the Kentucky Expo Center as part of the Mid-America Trucking Show. The 2026 event marks the 34th time the championship has been held alongside MATS and is expected to feature as many as 175 competing trucks.
Registration for competitors is open through February 15, or until the maximum number of entries is reached.
A kickoff to the custom truck season
Often viewed as the unofficial start of the custom show-truck calendar, the PKY Championship draws a wide range of participants. From heavily customized owner-operator rigs to fleet showpieces and professional builds, the event highlights both craftsmanship and creativity across the heavy-duty truck segment.
“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.”
Events tied to the PKY Championship
Beyond the judged competition itself, the PKY schedule includes several high-profile events that give attendees multiple ways to see the trucks up close and in motion.
Scheduled PKY events include:
- PKY Lights Show
Thursday, March 26, after dark through 9:30 p.m., Lot N
A nighttime showcase where competing trucks illuminate the showgrounds, emphasizing custom lighting, finishes, and design details. - PKY Parade Presented by Big Rig Videos
Saturday, March 28, 7:15 to 8:15 p.m., parking lot outside the Circle of Champions
A moving display of featured and competing trucks that allows spectators to view each rig from all angles. - PKY Awards Ceremony
Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m.
Recognition of winners across multiple categories, including Best of Show and People’s Choice. - Big Rig Build-Off
A head-to-head competition featuring elite custom builders, highlighting fabrication, innovation, and attention to detail.
Why the event matters to the industry
For drivers, the PKY Truck Beauty Championship is more than a show. It reflects the pride many take in their equipment and the role customization plays in personal branding, fleet identity, and craftsmanship within trucking culture.
For manufacturers, builders, and suppliers, the event offers a live look at trends in lighting, paint, interior work, fabrication, and technology that often influence future builds across the industry.
As the championship returns for its 34th year, organizers expect another strong turnout from both competitors and spectators, reinforcing the event’s place as a staple of the Mid-America Trucking Show.
Source: Overdrive
