The rumble of engines, the flashing of lights, and the wide-eyed excitement of children climbing into the driver’s seat of their favorite big machines can only mean one thing: TOUCH-A-TRUCK® is back!
On Saturday, November 15, the Junior League of New Orleans (JLNO) will once again host its beloved hands-on family event at the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner. Presented by Ochsner Children’s, the annual experience is designed to spark curiosity, inspire learning, and create unforgettable memories for children of all ages.
For one day only, the Pontchartrain Center will transform into a wonderland of wheels. More than 30 vehicles—from helicopters and fire engines to cranes, bulldozers, delivery trucks, police units, and utility vehicles—will be open for kids to explore. Children will have the rare opportunity to honk horns, sit in the driver’s seat, operate features from the cab, and meet the professionals who use these machines to build, protect, and serve the Greater New Orleans community.
“TOUCH-A-TRUCK® brings joy, wonder and learning to thousands of children and families every year,” said JLNO President Michelle Clarke Payne. “It’s a celebration of community, and it reflects JLNO’s commitment to supporting children and families through education, hands-on experiences and access to opportunities they might not otherwise have.”
A Full Day of Fun, Learning, and Access for All
The event opens to the public at 10 a.m., but families can get a head start by purchasing VIP Early Access tickets, which allow entry beginning at 9 a.m. A highlight of this year’s schedule is the 2 p.m. sensory-friendly hour. During this time, sirens and horns are turned off, lights are dimmed, and the environment is adapted to support children who benefit from reduced sensory stimulation. JLNO has prioritized inclusive access so that every child has the opportunity to enjoy the excitement of TOUCH-A-TRUCK® in a way that feels comfortable and welcoming.
Families looking to make the day extra special can book a TOUCH-A-TRUCK® Birthday Party package. These private celebrations include reserved party space, decorations, and other party opportunities tailored for children who dream of spending their big day surrounded by trucks, tools, and machines.
Opening Doors Through the Hard Hat Helpers Program
JLNO remains committed to ensuring that economic barriers don’t stand in the way of participation. Through its Hard Hat Helpers initiative, the League invites individuals and businesses to sponsor students from underserved schools across the region.
Donations to Hard Hat Helpers directly support Field Trip Friday, a dedicated preview day for children who may not otherwise have access to enrichment field trips. Hundreds of local students are welcomed into the event space at no cost, giving them the chance to explore the vehicles, interact with professionals, and experience the thrill of TOUCH-A-TRUCK® firsthand.
Win a Disney Getaway—Powered by Cox Communications
Adding even more excitement this year, JLNO is launching a new raffle powered by Cox Communications. One lucky winner will receive a $2,500 Walt Disney World® gift card along with expert trip planning by InteleTravel. This personalized support covers guidance on accommodations, dining reservations, park itineraries, and access to Disney-exclusive conveniences.
Entries are only $10 each, and supporters may purchase as many as they’d like. The winning ticket will be drawn live at TOUCH-A-TRUCK® at 3 p.m., and participants do not need to be present to win.
Community Partners Powering the Experience
TOUCH-A-TRUCK® is a signature fundraiser and public engagement event for the Junior League of New Orleans, made possible through the support of generous sponsors. This year’s presenting sponsor, Ochsner Children’s, plays a leading role in ensuring the event’s accessibility, safety, and success.
A host of community partners join in support, including Cox Communications, American Safety, Raising Cane’s, Manning Family Children’s, Louisiana Blue Foundation, Lamar, Maritime Partners, Sunbelt Rentals, and many others. Their contributions help offset event costs, fund school field trips, and keep ticket prices affordable for families across the region.
Continuing a Tradition of Impact
For JLNO, TOUCH-A-TRUCK® offers more than a day of fun—it also fuels a broader mission. Funds raised from ticket sales, sponsorships, raffle entries, and birthday packages help support the organization’s longstanding initiatives in child and family health, female entrepreneurship, civic engagement, disaster relief, and economic opportunity for women and families.
Whether a child dreams of becoming a firefighter, airline pilot, crane operator, police officer, or engineer—or just loves to climb, pretend, and explore—TOUCH-A-TRUCK® delivers inspiration on wheels. With VIP access, inclusive programming, opportunities to give back, and brand-new additions like the Disney raffle, the 2025 TOUCH-A-TRUCK® experience promises to be the best one yet!
To purchase tickets to the event or the Disney raffle, or for more information on the party packages and Hard Hat Helper program, visit jlno.org/touch-a-truck.
GIVEAWAY
PICKING 8 WINNERS!
ENTER TO WIN A FAMILY PACK OF 5 TICKETS
CLICK HERE
Deadline to enter is Saturday, November 8. We will pick our winners and notify everyone the evening of Sunday, November 9th. Winners have 24 hours to claim tickets. Good luck to everyone!
