A child gives a thumbs up at the first-ever Touch a Truck event last year. (Provided photo)

SARANAC LAKE — Kids of all ages will get to explore big trucks and emergency vehicles, learn how they work and sit in the driver’s seat as the Saranac Lake Civic Center hosts Touch a Truck from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 15.

Police, fire departments, municipalities, contractors and businesses will bring an assortment of trucks, safety/rescue vehicles, and heavy equipment to the civic center for this family-friendly event. Food vendors will also be on hand, there will be activities for the kids, and much more.

Admission to Touch a Truck ranges from $5 (presale ticket online) or $8 the day of the event. New this year is an option to purchase a commemorative T-shirt. The event is a fundraiser for the nonprofit Civic Center, with proceeds supporting programming for the community, like public skating, as well as the operation of the facility.

“We were unsure what to expect with last year’s inaugural event but it was a resounding success. Nearly a thousand participants from the community supported the event and had a great time,” said Marnie Crane of the Saranac Lake Civic Center. “Due to its success, Touch a Truck is in its second year with hopes of becoming bigger and better with years to come. It’s a great opportunity for kids and families to get up close with their favorite vehicles and equipment, while also showing support for the Civic Center.”

The first hour of Touch A Truck, from 10 to 11 a.m., will be a noise-free, no-horns period to accommodate children with noise sensitivities. There will also be demonstrations hosted by various vehicle participants and kids activities, like face painting and balloon animals, throughout the event.

Many families who came to the event last year have been asking for the event again.

“We are so excited for the return of Touch a Truck. The kids enjoyed it so much last year,” said Meghan Wolter, longtime supporter of the Civic Center and wife of Manager Matthew Wolter. “For months afterward, when we would come to the Civic Center, they would ask, ‘Mom, when is it going to be Touch a Truck again?'”

Henrik, son of Matt and Meghan, says he’s saving his piggy bank money for a really big excavator so he can bring it to Touch a Truck someday.

There’s still time for potential participants interested in showcasing their vehicles to register for the event, and sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.saranaclakeciviccenter.org/touchatruck or call 518-637-7401.