29th Annual Soapbox “Race of Fun”

**Saturday, September 7, 2024**

The Village of East Alton started this event as a contribution to the area celebration of the new Clark Bridge. Mayor Carlton and the Board of Trustees have been dedicated to continuing with making this event possible. This unique event is designed for fun only and is always held the Saturday after Labor Day for area youth to race in a soapbox car down Berkshire Hill. In case of rain, the races will be possibly delayed that day or rescheduled for the following day (Sunday) with a start time of 3 hours later.

Soapbox cars are provided for the participants. Participants must be 7 years of age by race date and meet requirements for the Stock Car Division: 4ft to 4ft 9in and must weigh between 55-90 pounds. Participants must be able to pass a safety check (which will take place the morning of the race), fit comfortably in the car, operate the brakes, and handle the steering of the car.

RACE DAY:
Saturday, September 7, 2024 – 10AM-3PM
*Rain Date: Sunday, September 8, 2024 – 1PM-6PM (3 hours later)

COSTS:
Village of East Alton Residents – Entry Fee: $2.00  Free for Village of East Alton Residents in 2024!
Non-Resident or Unincorporated Residents – Entry Fee: $4.00
$1 late fee for registrations received after Thursday, August 29th

Soapbox Car Sponsors Needed

Do you want to be a Soapbox Car sponsor? This event is not possible without our dedicated car sponsors. These sponsors purchase and maintain their soapbox car and have it decorated with their business advertisements. Each sponsor pays an entry fee of $85 (paid each year) for the year’s annual race to cover additional event insurance. This event currently has 24 car sponsors and is searching for more potential sponsors. If you have any questions please call the Keasler Recreation Complex at (618) 259-7411.

Vendors/Crafters Needed

Do you make crafts? Do you want to sell your products? If so, the Soap Box festival is a great opportunity for you to share your creations and make a few dollars in the process. Many vendors use this opportunity to share their talents, pass out information about their business, products, clubs or organizations, host a fundraiser or just be a helping hand during this event. If you are interested in having a booth or have any questions please call the Keasler Recreation Complex at (618) 259-7411.

Volunteers Needed

The Soap Box Festival is good fun for the whole family, but it requires a lot of volunteer help for the race set up, test run and safety check helpers, starting line helpers, finish line, and clean-up. If you are interested in volunteering your time, please call the Keasler Recreation Complex at (618) 259-7411. Your help and/or your organization’s help is greatly appreciated.