ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – If you’ve driven around Escanaba lately, you may have seen some colorful buses set up throughout town. The display is intended to build excitement for an event this weekend.
Armageddon on Wheels makes its return to the U.P. State Fairgrounds on Saturday, August 2.
“We have four-cylinder and six-cylinder figure eight racing, we have V8 racing, bump and run, and tough trucks,” said Coordinator Jennifer Spriks.
Sponsors and local organizations decorate their vehicles with unique themes. As the Upper Peninsula’s only figure eight racing event, collisions are a common occurrence—and a welcome one for attendees.
“We want rollovers, crashing, smashing!” Spriks laughed. “The more there is, the more excitement there is, and the crowd loves it. There’s a lot going on, and it’s a fun event.”
Spriks and her husband took over Armageddon on Wheels in 2018. She says the event has become a favorite event among locals and visitors.
“It’s something you would never see in the U.P. of Michigan,” she said. “People come from all over the place. We’ve had people here from Las Vegas, Hawaii. It’s fun for everybody.”
Gates for Armageddon on Wheels open at 3 p.m., and races begin at 5 p.m. Tickets will be available on site for $30, but they are expected to sell out during the event.
This year’s Armageddon on Wheels is sponsored by Gene’s Towing & Recovery, Brunette and Son Inc., NAPA Auto Parts, Cloverland Distributing, Mel’s Lawn and Garden, Pete’s 906 Auto Salvage, 10-4 Truck & Trailer Repair, and Bink’s Coca-Cola. For more information on the event, visit armageddononwheels.com or the Armageddon on Wheels Facebook page.