It’s January, but Kinetic Derby Day will be here before you know it.

The City of West Columbia’s Sixth Annual Kinetic Derby Day, held on Meeting and State Streets, is Saturday, April 26. It attracts smiling faces, encourages creative problem-solving, and provides an example of a proud and unified community. Last year’s Kinetic Derby Day crowd was the largest ever, and it just keeps growing. Kinetic Derby Day has become a can’t-miss tradition in a short period of time. Link to Register for Kinetic Derby Day

Expect the Kinetic Sculpture Parade to be full of creative entries, thrilling and competitive soapbox races down Meeting Street and large crowds, with packed tents, for the iMAGINE STEAM Festival on State Street. On State Street, the third annual iMAGINE STEAM festival will offer hands-on activities, while the Boys and Girls Club hosts a mini soapbox racing experience for young racers in the Kids’ Zone.

And this year there will be a unique twist.

“Kinetic Derby Day will feature a Fantasy Worlds theme,” said Anna Huffman, Director of Public Relations and Business Development for the City of West Columbia. “The Fantasy Worlds theme will allow you to step into iconic realms inspired by stories like Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings, or create your own magical world with dragons, castles, and flying cars. The possibilities are endless.”

Anna also said the Fantasy World theme is intended to inspire creativity and excitement.

“Kinetic Derby Day brings the community together through creativity, innovation, and fun,” she said. “This year, we’re thrilled to elevate the experience with more STEAM vendors, along with the exciting attractions like the giant slide and unforgettable derby races. It’s an event for all ages to explore, create, and make lasting memories.”

What else do you need to know about Kinetic Derby day?

Kinetic Derby Day combines creativity, competition, and family-friendly fun as teams build unique vehicles and sculptures. The festivities begin at 11 a.m. with the kinetic sculpture parade, followed by thrilling side-by-side soapbox racing from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Soapbox Racing details

In response to community feedback, the planners of Kinetic Derby day are introducing a modified soapbox racing lineup with two divisions: Art Cars and Kit Cars.

• Art Cars will focus on custom, from-scratch builds, highlighting participants’ unique, handcrafted designs.
• Kit Cars will provide a pre-built frame for racers to personalize, replacing the former “Need for Speed” division. Each division will include the same age groups as in previous years: 8-12, 13-17, and adult.

Do you need some pointers for your soapbox entry?

We typically host a soapbox car-building workshop at EdVenture in March,” Kelli Ricard, Director of Events and Publications for the City of West Columbia. “We’ll announce details on social media and through news releases as they’re finalized. It’s a great way for participants to prepare for the big day, and I encourage everyone to watch our social media for updates.” Kinetic Derby Day Facebook Page and City of West Columbia Instagram Page

What else will be going on at Kinetic Derby Day?

Explore the activities at the hill’s base, including:

• Chalk art displays;
• Interactive electric cars
• The Meeting Street Artisan Market, in West Columbia’s Interactive Art Park
• At Meeting and State Streets, you’ll find the Giant Slide and food truck rally

The excitement is building already. It’s time to start making your plans to get involved. Kinetic Derby Day will be here before you know it, and it’s an event you do not want to miss out on.