Monster truck racing has been around since 1952. Hundreds of smaller events were held in areas across the country where monster truck sport racing was popular. In the 1970s, the United States Hot Rod Association brought national attention to monster truck sports. Monster Jam was created in 1985 as the Indianapolis 500 equivalent for monster trucks. Smaller events continue today, and the winners of those small races can compete at Monster Jam.
A few monster trucks are celebrities in their field. Each vehicle is styled with a theme and name. Monster Jam stars include Grave Digger, Monster Mutt, El Toro Loco and Arachnophobia. Grave Digger is the best-known monster truck. Its theme is a spooky green ectoplasm lime color on black with a purple Grim Reaper and skulls. The underbody suspension is painted the same ecto lime green to contrast with the large black wheels.
Monster Jam showcases a monster truck race and freestyle competition. The most notable events at Monster Jam are the thrill acts, which include monster trucks climbing over a sea of regular-size cars or one another. The trucks pop wheelies as well. Quad wars, featuring four-wheeler dirt races, are also featured.
Monster Jam events run between two and 2 1/2 hours. Plan to arrive at the show half an hour early to secure parking and find your seat.