Fire Truck Festival at the N.C. Transportation Museum

The annual Fire Truck Festival at the North Carolina Transportation Museum is one of Rowan County’s most exciting summer events for families. Held each June, this high-energy festival brings firefighters and emergency vehicles from across the state together for a day of hands-on activities, live demonstrations, and interactive learning in Spencer.

Set on the historic grounds of one of North Carolina’s premier museums, the Fire Truck Festival combines education, public safety awareness, and family fun in a unique and engaging environment.

A Celebration of Fire Service & Public Safety

The Fire Truck Festival gives visitors the chance to meet firefighters from departments across North Carolina and learn more about the important work they do to protect their communities. Guests can get an up-close look at a wide variety of fire apparatus, from modern emergency vehicles to historic equipment.

One of the event’s highlights is the opportunity for attendees to vote for their favorite fire truck, adding a fun and interactive element to the day.

Hands-On Activities & Live Demonstrations

Designed with families in mind, the festival features a full schedule of activities and demonstrations that keep visitors engaged throughout the day. Attractions typically include:

• An inflatable fire safety house

• Obstacle courses and interactive challenges

• Jaws of Life rescue demonstrations

• Water ball competitions between fire departments

• Costume contests for children

• A fire truck parade

• Demonstrations of a historic 1902 steam pumper

These experiences offer both entertainment and valuable safety education, making the event especially popular with children.

Fire Memorabilia & Collector Finds

In addition to the activities and demonstrations, the Fire Truck Festival features a specialty flea market focused on fire service collectibles. Visitors can browse items from collectors and dealers, including:

• Vintage and modern fire helmets

• Patches and badges

• Model fire trucks and toys

• Books and photography

• Apparel and memorabilia

The flea market adds a unique element that appeals to enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone interested in fire service history.

Explore the Museum Grounds

Your visit to the Fire Truck Festival also includes the opportunity to explore the North Carolina Transportation Museum’s expansive campus. Guests can tour historic rail cars, view antique automobiles, and learn about the state’s transportation heritage while enjoying the festival atmosphere.

The combination of museum exhibits and event activities makes it easy to spend several hours on site.

Plan Your Visit

The Fire Truck Festival takes place annually in June at the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer. Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as many activities take place outdoors.

Because the event is popular with families, arriving earlier in the day allows time to experience demonstrations, explore the vehicles, and take full advantage of the activities.

Make It a Weekend Getaway

Many visitors choose to turn the Fire Truck Festival into a full weekend in Rowan County. Staying overnight provides time to explore nearby Salisbury, where you’ll find locally owned restaurants, breweries, shops, and family-friendly attractions.

An overnight visit also allows time to fully explore the North Carolina Transportation Museum beyond the festival activities, creating a relaxed and well-rounded summer getaway. Planning accommodations in advance is recommended for the best availability.

Click the image below to check out our Instagram Reel to catch a glimpse

of what to expect at Fire Truck Festival!