Dirt & Donuts Draws Crowds

Aug 23, 2017

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Presented by Toyota Knoxville and BOLD Overland

A “rough and ready” time was had by all earlier this summer, as Knoxville was the setting for the first-ever Dirt & Donuts event. The overland vehicle roundup roared into the Parkside Detail and Accessories facility on July 22.

More than 350 people attended the roundup, which was presented by Toyota Knoxville and BOLD Overland. The Parkside site not only boasted plenty of space for roundup-goers to show off their own off-road rigs, but an adjacent dirt trail to try out the latest overland vehicles.

The free, kid-friendly event also featured a climbing wall and inflatables for the youngsters in the crowd. In fact, a Dalmatian fire dog bounce house was one of Dirt & Donuts’ biggest hits. And the “donuts” part of the event, provided by local vendors, were definitely plentiful.

But of course, the “dirt” component of Dirt & Donuts was the main draw, and overland enthusiasts found it at the off-road track. The track provided a unique opportunity to experience Toyota Knoxville vehicles for themselves, all while negotiating the sand pits, dirt hills and other rugged terrain they encountered on the special track.

In addition to checking out premiere overland vehicles and equipment, including rooftop tents, Dirt and Donuts participants had a chance to network with other overland owners over the course of the morning.

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More than 200 overlanders participated in Best Off-Road contests. Some brought their vehicles fresh from a good scrubbing, while others kept the dirt on, for a super-tough look. Camo jeeps, neon-colored station wagons, pop-up towables, teardrop trailers, sky-high tires, elaborate camping set ups, solar panels, paddleboard racks, sturdy hitches — you name it, the people in the Knoxville area had found a way to turn overlanding into an art form.

All those entering got special giveaway t-shirts and bags for participating. Door prizes were also a popular feature, with several participants being drawn for gift certificates to K Town Tavern.

About the Organizers

Toyota Knoxville offers an extensive inventory of new Toyota cars, trucks and SUVs, along with used vehicles of all makes. Toyota Knoxville additionally features rental, service and parts facilities and can be reached by phone at (865) 218-3300.

BOLD Overland is an expedition travel team offering both training and guided adventures for those interested in off-road treks. As certified trainers with the International Four Wheel Drive Trainers Association (I4WDTA), the BOLD team shares its skills with beginners and all other interested overlanders. Although the expedition vehicles in the BOLD “stable” are all Toyota off-road vehicles, BOLD Overland offers equipment, training and camping advice suitable for all manner of off-road rigs.

The venue host, Parkside Detail & Accessories , located just across from Knoxville Toyota, specializes in helping people customize their dream vehicles. Parkside provides services ranging from cosmetic maintenance to both interior and exterior detailing, along with such special touches as luxurious leather interiors, window tinting, DVD systems and heated seats.