Soapbox Derby Race (Only)

On Saturday, April 20, 2024, prepare for the highly anticipated return of the fifth annual Kinetic Derby Day at Meeting Street and State Street. This year, we're introducing an exciting twist with the Cartoon Theme event. So, gear up in your favorite cartoon character outfits and register for the soapbox race, kinetic sculpture parade, or obstacle course! Kinetic Derby Day is dedicated to stimulating creative thinking, igniting competition, and ensuring family fun as teams unite to craft unique vehicles and awe-inspiring art installations. The day commences with the kinetic sculpture parade at 10:30 AM, followed by soapbox cars racing down the imposing Meeting Street hill, competing in adult and children divisions. After the traditional side-by-side soapbox race concludes at 1:00 PM, an exhilarating obstacle course takes over Meeting Street, delivering an intense soapbox racing experience. Prizes are up for grabs in various categories, including the best sculpture, the fastest car, and the most impressive soapbox car design. At the base of the hill, you'll discover talented chalk artists creating masterpieces for your enjoyment, alongside fun electric cars to experience. West Columbia's Interactive Art Park will also host the Meeting Street Artisan Market. Don't miss out on the colossal Giant Slide at the corner of Meeting Street and State Street, where you can also indulge in a food truck rally to satisfy your cravings. On State Street, we're excited to announce the second year of iMAGINE's partnership, offering a STEAM festival packed with captivating demonstrations and even more hands-on experiences. We are collaborating with the Boys and Girls Club and the Kids' Zone to engage our youngest attendees and provide a smaller soapbox racing experience. In addition to all the fantastic things we have going on, we'll have a train ride for you and your kids, transporting you from Meeting Street to State Street. The mission of Kinetic Derby Day is to inspire creative problem-solving, nurture community pride, and showcase our thriving community, open to economic growth and investment. We're here to spark imaginative thinking and cultivate problem-solving skills, turning ideas into reality.