The magic of the St. Albert Soap Box Derby is that it is an event that brings families, volunteers, and local businesses together for a day packed with fun, learning, and unforgettable memories. Whether you're a parent, a grandparent, a potential volunteer, or a sponsor looking to make a difference, there’s something for everyone.
The Racers
Kids aged 6 to 14 team up with their families to build and race their own soap box cars, creating moments they’ll talk about for years to come. Think you can’t build a soap box car? Think again! A common misconception is that you need advanced carpentry skills or hours of free time to participate. Here’s the truth: anyone can build a soap box car! All St Albert carts require the base Go-Kit ($95) which gives the basic components and the standards. More build option details can be found here.
To make it simple, the St. Albert Soap Box Derby offers free coaching sessions to help participants design and assemble their cars. These sessions are hands-on, beginner-friendly, and designed to fit into busy schedules. Whether you’ve never held a hammer or you’re a DIY enthusiast, these workshops ensure every family has the support they need. Plus, the materials are affordable and accessible.
Additionally, the organization offers plenty of information online to help you get your project across the finish line.
With a setup and practice run the day before the big race, you even have time for tweaks to the design if needed.
A Day of Community for Sponsors and Volunteers
Behind each successful derby is a group of volunteers and sponsors ensuring the event runs smoothly. There are countless ways to get involved. Whether you join presenting sponsor Fountain Tire in making young racer’s dreams come true, or gain valuable experience as a volunteer, you are certain to have a day to remember!
For the past three years, the St. Albert Family Resource Centre (FRC) has been proud to partner with the St. Albert Soap Box Derby to connect 6-14 aged youth to this family-friendly event.
Thanks to the generosity of local businesses and sponsors, many children, especially those experiencing social anxiety or other challenges, can participate in the Derby. The Soapbox Derby is a supportive, low-pressure environment for healthy risk-taking, building confidence, and forming friendships at this St Albert supported community event. This year, 25 Community Racer carts were sponsored. FRC hosts a Community BBQ, where each child picks a cart, takes a test drive, enjoys the playground, and shares a meal. Community Racers exemplifies the power of community, generosity, and inclusive programming. It demonstrates what can be accomplished when organizations, businesses, and volunteers unite to support families.
Fast Links and Quick Guide
- Registration: Click here
- Volunteers: Click here
- Sponsors: Click here
- What happens on race day: Click here
- Help building your soap box: Click here
- Key Dates:
- June 7 – inspection for new and old/modified carts at the Naki Transit Centre from 11 am to 2 pm
- June 13 – setup and practice
- June 14 – race day!
- Contacts for questions about any aspect of the Derby: scroll down to the end of this page.
- Derby Social Media: Facebook, YouTube,
Don’t Miss Out!
Mark your calendars and get ready for a day that is a longstanding part of St. Albert’s history. Whether you’re racing, cheering from the sidelines, volunteering, or sponsoring, the St. Albert Soap Box Derby is an opportunity to create lasting connections, spread laughter, and make memories you’ll treasure forever. Start building (or get involved) today, and we’ll see you at the finish line!
