In a kustom-made journey spanning over four decades, the Kustom Kemps Of America (KKOA) event has touched down in various states across the USA, leaving a trail of kindness and camaraderie in its wake. However, when the event first arrived in Salina nearly 20 years ago, the warm reception and genuine hospitality from the locals made a lasting impact. The KKOA enthusiasts were met with open arms, and the community's good-heartedness prompted them to make Salina an annual stop on their cross-country schedule.
Founded and driven by the passionate Jerry Titus, who, alongside his wife DeVonna of 63 years, brought this extraordinary celebration of customized automobiles to life. KKOA is not only the biggest and oldest event of its kind in America but also one-of-a-kind in its dedication to custom car culture.
This year, KKOA returns to Salina on July 27-30, promising another unforgettable experience for attendees. The event schedule is packed with exciting activities, showcasing a wide array of show cars, trucks, drag machines, vintage bicycles, and various automotive vendors. Additionally, the event will feature two working Kustom Bodyshops, an automotive swapper's market, and kustom rodding vendors. Participants and spectators alike can groove to the beats of two live bands performing on two different stages, and delicious offerings from food vendors.
A highlight of the festivities is the famous Thursday evening Sundown Cruise Wave, attracting thousands of sidewalk spectators to witness the magnificent procession of Kustom Kemps. Another must-see is the Show & Shine at the stunning 26-acre Oakdale Park, scheduled for Friday-Saturday from 9 am- 5 pm and Sunday from 9 am-2 pm. The park will be adorned with gleaming automobiles and other attractions like Kustom Pedal Cars and the $50 Treasure Hunt featuring the 1950 Mini-Merc.
Car enthusiasts can also look forward to the thrilling KKOA Hotrod and Kustom Auction on Friday at noon, held at Oakdale Park. For the adrenaline junkies, the Run-What'ya-Brung-Drags on Friday, from 4 pm-dusk at East Crawford Recreation Area, offers a chance to witness spectacular drag races among registered Leadsled entries, engaging in 1/8-mile showdowns.
Adding a touch of glamour to the event are the two age group beauty contests, featuring "pin-up contestants" aged 18-39 and "lookers" aged 40 and above. The contests will take place at Oakdale Park Stage, and the top three contestants from each age group will walk away with cash prizes.
As a tribute to the rich history of wheeled culture, the Vintage Bicycle Spoke-tacular will be on display throughout the weekend. Additionally, there will be a $500 Model Car and Pedal Car Spectacular, offering enthusiasts a chance to marvel at these miniature masterpieces.
At the heart of the event lies the dedication to kustomization, exemplified by the presence of two working Kustom Shops open throughout the weekend at Oakdale Park.
Celebrity Erik Estrada from CHiPs will be present, adding star power to the occasion. Furthermore, a distinguished Elvis tribute artist, recently ranked as the number one in the world, will make a special appearance on Thursday night at Stiefel Theatre in Downtown Salina.
The KKOA Spectacular Headquarters and Registration can be found at Quality Inn & Suites, 2110 W. Crawford. For more information about the event and registration, interested participants can call 1-417-847-2940.
As the KKOA Spectacular comes to a close, attendees can anticipate the grand award ceremonies on Sunday at 1 pm at Oakdale Park stage. Winners of various categories, including the Top Kustom, Top Hotrod, Top 25, and Special Awards, will be awarded.
Don't miss this unparalleled celebration of custom car culture and automotive excellence. Be sure to check out https://kustomkempsofamerica.com/events.htm for ticket prices and event information, which are subject to change.