Truck shows are more than just polished builds and chrome.
For diesel repair shops, owner-operators, fleets, and vendors, the right event is an opportunity to:
- See new parts and equipment
- Connect with suppliers and manufacturers
- Learn what’s trending in the industry
- Get a closer look at real working trucks and show builds
If you’re planning your 2026 calendar, here are some of the most relevant diesel and semi-truck-focused shows across the United States, organized by month.
👉 Always confirm dates and registration details on official event websites before traveling – many events fill quickly or update schedules.
February 2026
Lone Star Throwdown
Dates: February 20–22, 2026
Location: Conroe, Texas
Focus: Custom trucks, diesel builds, lifted and lowered trucks, aftermarket vendors
One of the largest truck shows in the country. While not strictly semi-focused, it draws a massive diesel crowd and is a strong event for custom builds and aftermarket exposure.
Best For: Custom diesel builds, vendors, truck enthusiasts
For More Information: Official Lone Star Throwdown Website
March 2026
Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS)
Dates: March 26–28, 2026
Location: Louisville, Kentucky
Focus: Heavy-duty trucking, fleets, owner-operators, parts, technology, and industry networking
MATS is one of the most important trucking events in North America. It brings together manufacturers, suppliers, fleets, and owner-operators in one place.
👉 If you are in diesel repair, parts, or fleet operations, this is one of the most valuable shows to attend.
Best For: Diesel shops, fleets, owner-operators, vendors
For More Information: Official MATS Website
April 2026
75 Chrome Shop Truck Show
Dates: April 24–26, 2026
Location: Wildwood, Florida
Focus: Big rigs, chrome, lighting, show trucks, vendors
This is a strong Southeast event centered around big rigs and trucking culture. It’s one of the better fits for a semi-truck and diesel audience.
Best For: Owner-operators, show truck builders, big rig enthusiasts
For More Information: Official 75 Chrome Shop Website
C10 Nationals – Las Vegas
Dates: April 10–11, 2026
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Focus: Classic trucks, custom builds, vendors, racing events
While not semi-focused, this is still a truck-only event with strong aftermarket participation.
Best For: Custom truck builders, aftermarket brands
For More Information: Official C10 Nationals Website
May 2026
C10 Nationals – Texas
Dates: May 8–9, 2026
Location: Fort Worth, Texas
Focus: Classic trucks, custom builds, swap meet, racing
Another stop for the C10 series, offering strong exposure for aftermarket vendors and truck builders.
Best For: Custom truck builders, aftermarket brands
For More Information: Official C10 Nationals Website
July / August 2026
Smoky Mountain Big Rig Showdown
Dates: July 30 – August 1, 2026
Location: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Focus: Big rigs, show trucks, vendors, light shows, family events
One of the best all-around truck shows for the diesel and semi-truck community.
👉 Combines working trucks, show trucks, vendors, and entertainment.
Best For: Owner-operators, fleets, diesel shops, families
For More Information: Official Big Rig Showdown Website
August 2026
Badger State Truck’n Show
Dates: August 7–8, 2026
Location: Baraboo, Wisconsin
Focus: Big rigs, show trucks, charity event, vendors, live entertainment
A strong Midwest show with a large turnout of semi trucks and a good mix of competition and community.
Best For: Show trucks, owner-operators, Midwest diesel community
For More Information: Official Badger State Truck’n Show Website
October 2026
C10 Nationals – Nashville
Dates: October 2–3, 2026
Location: Lebanon, Tennessee
Focus: Classic trucks, custom builds, vendors, racing
Strong Southeast event for truck enthusiasts and aftermarket participation.
Best For: Custom truck builders, aftermarket brands
For More Information: Official C10 Nationals Website
November 2026
SEMA Show
Dates: November 3–6, 2026
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Focus: Aftermarket industry, parts, tools, performance, manufacturers
SEMA is not diesel-only, but it is one of the most important events for:
- Parts suppliers
- Manufacturers
- Shop owners
- Aftermarket brands
👉 This is a trade-only show with registration requirements.
Best For: Industry professionals, vendors, shop owners
For More Information: Official SEMA Show Website
More 2026 Truck Shows to Watch
This list highlights some of the most relevant diesel and semi-truck events – but it’s not every show happening in 2026.
👉 For a full calendar of truck shows across the U.S., use resources like:
- The Truck Show List (calendar + map of semi truck shows)
- Smart Trucking (industry-focused show coverage)
- Regional event calendars and trucking communities
👉 Always confirm details on the official event website before planning travel.
Which Shows Are Best for Diesel & Semi-Truck Audiences?
If your focus is diesel engines, fleets, and heavy-duty trucks:
Top Picks
- Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS)
- Smoky Mountain Big Rig Showdown (Pigeon Forge)
- Badger State Truck’n Show
- 75 Chrome Shop Truck Show
These offer the strongest mix of:
- Big rigs
- Diesel performance
- Industry vendors
- Real-world truck applications
Final Takeaway
The best truck show depends on what you’re looking for.
- For industry connections and parts suppliers → MATS
- For big rigs and show trucks → Pigeon Forge, Badger State
- For aftermarket exposure → SEMA, Lone Star Throwdown
👉 Plan early. Many shows have limited truck entries, vendor spots, and hotel availability.
Getting Ready for Show Season?
Whether you’re preparing a truck for show season or keeping your fleet on the road, having the right parts and support matters.
Call 844-304-7688 or visit highwayandheavyparts.com to get the right diesel engine parts for your application.
From diagnosis through delivery, we’re Highway and Heavy Parts.
