A “No Show” Truck Show
It’s hard to use the term “truck show” for a show that’s not a show. We know what you’re thinking. How is a truck show, not a “truck show?” Well, that’s easy. When show promoter Dino Battilana first decided to have a truck gathering back in 2010, it was just him and some of his like-minded GM truck enthusiasts hanging out at his house, buddies hanging out with cold beverages talking about the stuff they’ve done to their classic Chevy and GMC trucks. It wasn’t long before this annual gathering at Dino’s house outgrew the space he had, so he moved it to the parking lot of his business, Dino’s Appliance Factory Service. That gave more room for more trucks and word spread like wildfire, and that location was quickly outgrown as well.
Being in the Phoenix area, Dino knew he could find a spot that could accommodate his ever-growing group of “friends” who came to hang out and enjoy cool trucks. For this, he got together with the crew at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, and worked out the details to take over their parking lots for one weekend a year. The mid-November date allows for perfect weather in Arizona so there’s no need for an indoor event to stay away from the normal 100+ degree summers they get there. That means the massive parking lots surrounding the home of the Cardinals would be the perfect home for such an event.
Once Dino moved the event to the stadium, he wanted to keep the same backyard feel that started it almost 25 years ago. In order to do this, turning the gathering, or “Git Down” as he calls it, into a full-fledged show would not only be more work for him and his staff but would take away the vibe the event has become known for. To continue that vibe, this event is still free to come hang out, like it was from year one. It’s free for not only spectators but for vehicles as well. Any General Motors truck and SUV is allowed on Friday while any GM vehicle is allowed on Saturday at the event. Sure, there are some late model vehicles at the event, but for the most part, it’s packed with the classic variety. Having a huge location to pack thousands of vehicles for people to come and hang out, talk shop and get ideas for their own projects is what it’s all about. There’s no judging, no wrist bands and no trophies—just come and hang out!
As if the sea of custom and classic vehicles as far as the eye can see wasn’t enough, the massive vendor area is just as impressive. In 2024, there were over 240 vendors from all aspects of the custom automotive world. Wheel companies, suspension companies, engine companies and even multiple chassis companies were on-site not only displaying but offering deals all weekend for people to order parts for their projects. There was also a huge field in the middle of the property where car clubs and groups of friends could set up tents and grill out all weekend. This only extended the laid-back vibe of the event, allowing people to make this one big picnic surrounded with cool trucks.
Dino never imagined his backyard would ever get this massive. People travel from all over the country for this two-day event and it has become one of the largest and best events for the GM truck scene. It’s not the only non-show truck show but has become the largest one in the country and one not to miss. To keep up with next year’s plans, make sure to check out www.dinosgitdown.com and follow on Instagram @dinosgitdown.