Jeep enthusiasts of all types descended on south central Pennsylvania recently 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
Managing Editor
CARLISLE, Pa. — Behind very seasonable weather, as well as on and off overcast skies, those attending the 27th annual PA Jeeps All Breeds Jeep show at Carlisle’s Fairgrounds were comfortably able to enjoy everything this year’s show had to offer.
For some, that meant inspecting scores of aftermarket Jeep parts vendors including Quadratec, which this year brought along tables and tables worth of discounted items, along with plenty of new recovery gear and lighting products from its Res-Q and house brand lineup. Or perhaps talking shop about lift kits or soft tops; air inflation systems or bumpersbumpers, wheels and tires.
For others, it was admiring all kinds of different era Jeeps and vehicle modifications throughout the event’s numerous parking areas.
And for many, the Jeep obstacle playground with its different rocky and dirt tracks was the hit destination.
Yes, this year's All Breeds Jeep Show once again had a little bit of everything for attendees as organizers built up a kids’ entertainment area, included a swap meet section and organized a Show and Shine to recognize impressive Jeep offerings through the brand's lengthy history.
But thankfully the oppressive heat which always seems to settle on the area during each show weekend stayed away this year. Still, most attending vendors, including Quadratec, had covered tents and plenty of water for those who needed a break.
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 28th 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.
