WHAT IS THE NATIONAL
TRUCK-IN?
The National Truck-in is a yearly gathering dedicated to vans and panel trucks, featuring a judged van show, games, music, seminars, vendors, and camping. Attendees—called vanners—bring everything from simple, stock vans to highly customized show vans. Custom vanning began in the 1970s when people started converting basic work vans for personal use, helping inspire today’s SUVs. While many longtime vanners are older now, a new generation is discovering vintage vans, especially pre-1980 American models and 1960s “early” vans with engine-in-the-cab designs.
All vans are welcome regardless of condition; the community is known for being friendly and welcoming. The event has been running since 1973, moving to different host clubs each year, and is unique because it’s organized entirely by volunteers, with proceeds going to charity. The message ends by encouraging readers to consider getting a van and joining the fun.
All vans are welcome regardless of condition; the community is known for being friendly and welcoming. The event has been running since 1973, moving to different host clubs each year, and is unique because it’s organized entirely by volunteers, with proceeds going to charity. The message ends by encouraging readers to consider getting a van and joining the fun.
The GroundsThe Trumbull County Fairgrounds isn’t just for livestock and carnival rides—it’s also a major hub for van culture. One of the marquee van-focused events here is the Buckeye Van Club Van Rally, which takes place each summer. The rally pulls in custom van enthusiasts from around the region for a weekend of camping, meet-ups, and show-and-shine.
In addition to dedicated van events, the grounds host a variety of vehicle shows that attract van owners, like the “Unique Treasures” Car & Bike Show. Van gatherings here aren’t just about aesthetics — they’re wrapped into the broader automotive and fair culture, creating a welcoming space for van lovers to connect, camp, and celebrate their shared passion. Whether you’re rolling in with a bone-stock camper van or a fully customized show van, the fairgrounds provide everything you need — including room to park, camp, and hang out with like-minded van people |
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Thank You to Years Past
Cortland, Ohio has played a proud and recurring role in the history of the National Truck‑In (Van Nationals) — Hosted at the Trumbull County Fairgrounds, these events have celebrated creativity, community, and the enduring spirit of van culture.
Cortland’s National Truck‑In Years
1979 – 7th Van Nationals
Theme: “The Magnificent 7th”
Hosted by Buckeye Van Association, this early National is remembered as one of the most vibrant and influential meets of the 1970s.
1983 – 11th Van Nationals
Theme: “7 Come 11 – Welcome to Vanlantic City”
Organized by Steel Valley Street Vans, the event returned to Cortland with a playful casino theme that connected back to the 1979 Nationals.
2007 – 35th Van Nationals
Hosted by the Northeast Ohio Van Congress, the 35th marked a modern‑era gathering at Trumbull County Fairgrounds, celebrating tradition and fellowship among a new generation of vanners.
A Proud Legacy Continues
From The Magnificent 7th to Mt. Olympus, Cortland has and will be home to four unforgettable chapters of Van Nationals history. As we look ahead to 2026, we celebrate the vanners, volunteers, and host clubs who have made these gatherings legendary.
Cortland’s National Truck‑In Years
1979 – 7th Van Nationals
Theme: “The Magnificent 7th”
Hosted by Buckeye Van Association, this early National is remembered as one of the most vibrant and influential meets of the 1970s.
1983 – 11th Van Nationals
Theme: “7 Come 11 – Welcome to Vanlantic City”
Organized by Steel Valley Street Vans, the event returned to Cortland with a playful casino theme that connected back to the 1979 Nationals.
2007 – 35th Van Nationals
Hosted by the Northeast Ohio Van Congress, the 35th marked a modern‑era gathering at Trumbull County Fairgrounds, celebrating tradition and fellowship among a new generation of vanners.
A Proud Legacy Continues
From The Magnificent 7th to Mt. Olympus, Cortland has and will be home to four unforgettable chapters of Van Nationals history. As we look ahead to 2026, we celebrate the vanners, volunteers, and host clubs who have made these gatherings legendary.
Donations Are Appreciated
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Fuel the Spirit. Drive the Legacy. Ignite the Nation.
Your donation powers the heart of Van Nationals 2026 in Cortland, Ohio—a celebration of freedom on four wheels, the artistry of custom vans, and the community that’s kept this culture alive for generations. By contributing, you help us create an unforgettable gathering where builders, dreamers, families, and lifelong vanners come together to showcase creativity, honor tradition, and inspire the next wave of road-running adventurers. Every dollar keeps the engines roaring, the lights shining, and the good vibes rolling. Join the mission. Support the movement. Keep the van life alive Click the van to donate. |
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