Thousands cut through the heat to enjoy scores of the industry's biggest vendors, climb obstacles on the Jeep Playground and observe vehicles throughout the brand's vast history.
by Matt Konkle
Torque Managing Editor
CARLISLE, Pa. — They came by the Jeep-load Saturday and Sunday, streaming into the Carlisle Fairgrounds ready to ignore the heat and soak up everything that the 26th annual PA Jeeps All Breeds Jeep Show had to offer.
For many, that meant talking shop with dozens of aftermarket vendors — perhaps about lift kits or soft tops; air inflation systems or bumpersbumpers, wheels and tires. For others, it was another chance to entertain themselves at the event's Jeep Playground. Dodging rocks and practicing the correct approach and descent angles.
Yes, this year's All Breeds Jeep Show had a little bit of everything for attendees as organizers once again built up a kids entertainment area, included a swap meet section and organized a Show & Shine to recognize impressive Jeep offerings through the brand's lengthy history.
But heat was the main factor throughout the weekend and hydration was imperative for everyone. The crew at PA Jeeps set out plenty of water bottles, misting areas and constantly reminded attendees via the PA system to spend time in the shade to cool down. Most attending vendors, including Quadratec, had covered tents to help ease everyone's time in the sun as well.
Besides inspecting wares at respective vendor displays that constituted the main show area, many also registered for the event's Show and Shine contest and brought beautifully restored or modified vehicles that were judged in three different categories—stock, modified and unlimited. Hundreds of owners also had their vehicles inspected for the event's obstacle course and spent a lot of time on the Jeep Playground's rocks to give their vehicles a decent workout.
This year's course was again set up by Bernie Gardula, general manager of Rausch Creek Off Road Park in Tremont, Pennsylvania, and monitored by dozens of spotter volunteers. The playground offered three different challenges to give all drivers of all skill levels something to overcome. Additionally, those who wanted to experience the course, but didn't want to drive it, were able to 'passenger up' with an experienced guide at different times during the two show days.
Rounding out the event was grand raffle Sunday afternoon which included over $20,000 in products from many of the event's vendor attendees and area businesses.
Next year's 27th annual PA Jeeps All Breeds Jeep Show will again take place in July at the Carlisle Fairgrounds. Event information and tickets will be available starting later this year.
