Touch a Truck: Taos Community Gets Up Close with Big Wheels and Bright Lights
SOMETHING EXTRAORDINARY
is revving up in town—an event where the rumble of engines meets the wide-eyed wonder of children in the 23rd Annual “Touch a Truck”, Saturday, August 17th, from 1 to 4 pm. It is a day when kids can clamber into the driver’s seat of some of the most massive, awe-inspiring vehicles they’ve only seen from afar. Jacob Padilla, a seasoned member of the Taos Police Department, has been a part of this community tradition for a decade, and his excitement is palpable.
“When I was a kid, they had nothing like this,” Padilla reflects. “It’s pretty awesome to see the kids’ faces light up when they get to see these big vehicles up close. They love the tractors, police cars, fire trucks—all the good stuff. For many children, and adults, it’s a rare chance to explore the machinery that keeps their town running smoothly.”
Padilla has been with the Taos Police Department since 2015. He handles various tasks, including traffic control and car crashes, but during “Touch a Truck,” he transforms into a community ambassador, bridging the gap between the badge and the public. “It’s a good outreach for the community,” he says. “It gets families outside, gets kids outside, and they get to have fun and see what those vehicles look like up close.”
One of the most talked-about features of the event is the police semitruck. “I take the police semi-truck, and man, the kids love that,” Padilla beams. “There’s just something about a police semi-truck that looks a lot different from fire trucks and police cars—it’s a head-turner.” With its air horn and police lights, it’s a showstopper that leaves a lasting impression.”
This year, a fresh addition might steal the spotlight: the Ford Lightning, an all-electric vehicle poised to revolutionize the department’s approach to parking enforcement. “It’s a pretty cool vehicle because it’s electric, it’s a lot quieter, and it’s got instant speed,” Padilla explains. “Instead of a motor, you’ve got a trunk in the front—it’s different, but it’s exciting.” Although it’s not yet confirmed whether the Lightning will make its debut at this year’s event, its potential presence is generating buzz.
Adding to the excitement this year, for the first time, the “Touch a Truck” event will have stations in and outside the Taos Youth and Family Center, an opportunity for families to explore the facility, and use all it offers—free for the day. Judy Esquibel, the Town of Taos Community Events Coordinator, expressed her enthusiasm,“I’m excited to have the town host the event in different locations at the center. Kids can explore the world of trucks and check out the pool tables and other activities we have available. As always, this event is free for the community.”
This year’s lineup includes a fully stocked fire truck with a Taos firefighter on hand, Taos County Fire and Rescue with a emergency medical technician, and a crowd favorite, the Kit Carson utility truck with its awe inspiring elevated work platform.
For those on the fence about attending, Padilla has a simple message: “It’s a fun day. They’ve got gift bags, and food—it’s just a good time. Kids get to look around, families get to see things, and it brings everybody out to have a good time together.”
As the event draws near, Padilla is gearing up behind the wheel of the Lightning. He and other big rig drivers are ready to open the doors to these mechanical marvels and let the next generation of Taos residents take the driver’s seat—if only for a moment!