A procession of engines and American flags filled Highway 41 on Sunday, Nov. 2, as the 29th Annual Highway 41 Toy Convoy and Ride for Life drew a crowd of hundreds of families, participants, and drivers together for a tradition in Middle Tennessee nearly three-decades old now.
Led by founder Katy Ishee, the convoy returned once more on Sunday as a unifying force driven by a mission of spreading love and generosity to those in need. Highway 41 Toy Convoy and Ride for Life collect thousands of toys every year for less fortunate children across the region.
People of all kinds, from weekend motorcyclists braving the cold to the Bell Buckle Fire Department all arrived early at Raiders Academy in Manchester with one or more new, unwrapped toys to make a better Christmas for children in need. At noon, the convoy rolled north down Highway 41 with a police escort, heading through Beech Grove before turning west on Highway 64 toward the event’s destination at Winette Ayers Park in Wartrace.
In a remarkable moment of collaboration, CSX Railroad halted a train in Wartrace to allow the whole convoy to pass through uninterrupted, a freight train size gesture of unity and support that drew cheers from everyone involved.
This year’s event was particularly special, as iconic rock musician Ted Nugent served as the official Tennessee spokesperson, even giving the convoy a shoutout on social media platform Cameo. This year’s Grand Marshal who led the procession was Roger J. Piggott, CEO of Iceman Television, alongside his wife Cheryl Robeson Piggott, who served as Honorary Chairwoman and is also the founder of World Orphans Day and The Stars Foundation.
Iceman Television brough a camera crew to capture the event, which will serve as the film filming of the series Patriot Nation–America 250, a 13-episode series dedicated to American patriotism, which is set to premiere on July 4, 2026. Footage from the ride is also set to appear in upcoming episodes of Hearts of Fire.
“This convoy represents everything great about America — freedom, faith, and compassion,” said Nugent. “The people of Tennessee know how to show up for one another.”
All proceeds from the event went straight towards promising a better Christmas for children in need. Participants donated at least one toy, many donating many more. Over 20 trophies were awarded, from Most Patriotic Vehicle to the Young at Heart Award.
Winette Ayers Park was filled with music, as Virgil T, Uncle Tom’s Band, and up-and-coming star Webb Schmidt played for the crowd throughout the afternoon.
“After 29 years, the convoy continues to grow stronger,” Ishee said. “It’s not just about the toys — it’s about showing love, hope, and unity.”
One year short of three decades, the 2025 Highway 41 Toy Convoy once more showed a small town’s tradition can spread big messages of kindness.
