In 1955, Caterpillar dealers were invited to the first Worldwide Caterpillar Dealer Meeting in 20 years, which featured “The Big Parade.” This particular show was the largest equipment show in the history of the Earthmoving industry and was so impactful it inspired Caterpillar to celebrate, entertain and educate Caterpillar employees and their families in what became known as the “Power Parade”.

Caterpillar held its inaugural Power Parade at Marquette Heights, Illinois, in 1964 and later at Edwards, Illinois both in the USA, in 1973, 1978, 1988 and 2000. These expositions showcased the complete new Caterpillar product line, as well as the skills of the equipment’s operators. Each Power Parade contained up to 28 shows over a two-week period and more than 100,000 people attended.

This year a theme exhibition focused on this unique event could be visited at the Caterpillar Visitor Center. Curious? Click on the link: "Power Parades of the Past".