Mark Your Calendars
(and Maybe Set a Reminder)
Building a racer, wrangling a team, or volunteering your time takes a little planning - and we’re here to help. Below is a timeline of the most important dates leading up to Derby Day, so you know exactly when to sign up, show up, and get ready for the chaos.
The Dates
Online Registration
Feb 14th - April 15th
This is your official moment to say, “Yes, I’m doing this.” During online registration, racers sign up, claim their design, and commit to building something that will (hopefully) make it to the bottom of the hill in one piece.
In-Person Racer Signups
May 2nd - 6am - (location TBD)
This is where things get real. Racers must show up in person to pick up their race credentials, grab your spot, ask last-minute questions, and make sure all the important boxes are checked before Derby Day. No shortcuts...gravity demands accountability.
In-Person Racer Meetings
July 31st 6PM /
Aug 1st 3PM
Attendance is required for racers, and for good reason. These meetings cover safety rules, race-day logistics, and everything you need to know to compete responsibly (and have maximum fun). Choose one of the two dates and don’t skip it, especially if you want to race.
In-Person Volunteer Meetings
Aug 7th 6PM /
Aug 8th 3PM
Volunteers are the backbone of the Derby, and this meeting makes sure everyone feels confident and prepared. You’ll learn your role, meet fellow volunteers, and get the inside scoop on how to keep Derby Day running smoothly. Just like racers, attendance at one of the two meetings is required.
Portland Winter Lights Festival
Feb 6th-7th /
Feb 13th-14th
6PM-10PM
Every winter, when Portland lights up the night, the PDX Adult Soapbox Derby rolls out something a little different. Join us at the Portland Winter Light Festival as we showcase a select lineup of our gravity-powered racers - standing still for once, but still stealing the show.
Questions? We’ve Got You.
Dates change, details evolve, and sometimes you just need a human answer. If you have any questions about registration, volunteering, or where you’re supposed to be and when, reach out to us at [racer@soapboxracer.org or volunteer@soapboxderby.org] and we’ll point you in the right direction.