The Kenworth truck assembly plant in Chillicothe, Ohio, recently held the fifth annual Kenworth Truck Parade in the heart of downtown Chillicothe. This year’s parade embraced the theme “American Owned, American Made,” celebrating the pride, craftsmanship and heritage that define both Kenworth trucks built in Chillicothe and America’s 250th anniversary.

The 2026 Kenworth Truck Parade brought together more than 50 new, classic, and customized Kenworth trucks from across the United States.

Featured trucks represented generations of Kenworth history, from vintage models to modern trucks manufactured at the Chillicothe plant today. Patriotic displays and red, white and blue branding highlighted this year’s event as drivers and community members celebrated America’s trucking tradition.

As part of Kenworth’s tribute to the nation’s 250th birthday, one of the leading trucks in the parade debuted a special-edition paint scheme created for the Freedom 250 initiative. Inspired by the iconic mid-1990s TourAmerica T600 design, the refreshed look blends classic heritage with modern production.

The commemorative paint scheme is now available on Kenworth T680, W900L, W990, and T880 sleeper models, offering customers a distinctive way to celebrate trucking history during this national milestone.

“The Kenworth Truck Parade continues to be a special tradition for both the Chillicothe community and Kenworth enthusiasts from across the country,” said Doug VanZuiden, Kenworth Chillicothe plant manager. “This year’s ‘American Owned, American Made’ theme was a fitting way to celebrate the people who build, drive and support Kenworth trucks while honoring America’s 250th anniversary.”

Kenworth Chillicothe Plant

Leading up to the truck parade, the Kenworth Chillicothe plant hosted events for participating drivers and their families. Drivers had the opportunity to tour the Kenworth Chillicothe plant and see firsthand where many Kenworth trucks are assembled. The plant also hosted an employee family event on the plant grounds on the day of the parade. The parade concluded with a performance from Nashville country artist Blaine Bunting.

The Kenworth Chillicothe plant opened in 1974 and is located on a 120-acre site 50 miles south of Columbus, Ohio. The 622,000-square-foot plant features advanced manufacturing technologies, including robotic cab assembly, and a state-of-the-art paint facility for both cab and chassis, utilizing the latest industry technology. Since 2018, Kenworth has invested nearly $400 million in the Chillicothe plant.

Fundraising for the United Way

To support the local community, the Kenworth Chillicothe plant and the United Way of Ross County once again partnered to coordinate a 50/50 raffle, with proceeds benefiting the United Way of Ross County. Members of the organization sold raffle tickets throughout the event and coordinated sponsorships within the VIP viewing area along the parade route. In total, more than $58,500 was raised for the United Way of Ross County.