After 30 incredible years of celebrating creativity and community with the Kingston Artists Soapbox Derby, we’ve been asked to retire the name “Soapbox Derby” by the International Soap Box Derby organization. They hold multiple federal trademarks for terms like “SOAP BOX DERBY,” “SOAP BOX,” and others—some dating back to 1934.
So, we’re thrilled to announce our new name:
The Kingston Artcar Derby
Same spirit, same kinetic creativity, brand new momentum!
Let’s make history—again.
Save the date August 16, 2026 for the first ever Kingston Artcar Derby!
The parade begins at the corner of Spring Street and Lower Broadway in
Kingston’s Historic Downtown
If you love the Kingston Artcar Derby, consider joining our planning committee. For more info contact us at
95kasd@gmail.com
The Derby is a much-loved annual event that unites professional artists, families, and community organizations in the most inventive, rollicking display of kinetic sculpture to be found anywhere in the Hudson Valley region.
This fun-filled day is a celebration of creativity and joy, drawing thousands of residents and tourists to historic Kingston’s beautiful Rondout District to laugh, dine and shop. Kids, nonprofits, local businesses and artists are encouraged to craft their own or build a team and enter their best inspired creations.
Music and live performances add to a day of fun that concludes with a wacky and entertaining awards ceremony in TR Gallo Park, where participants receive prizes and one-of-kind artist designed trophies and spectators have the opportunity to get last looks at their favorite soapbox cars, lined up post-parade on West Strand.
The Starting Line is at the corner of Spring Street and Broadway and ends at the bottom of the Broadway hill. Awards Ceremony takes place in TR Gallo Park on the waterfront.
Special thanks to our Entry Sponsors:
Reher Center for Immigrant Culture & History
Rondout Savings Bank
RAH’s Playland & Parlor
Hendrik Dijk
Maria Dijk-Pichelbauer
Terri’s Deli
And to all our Volunteers!
Kingston Artcar Derby (KAD)
A fiscally sponsored project of Village Hallowe’en Parade, Inc. (EIN: 13-3020055)
(dba Hudson Valley Community Productions)
Cash and in-kind donations to KAD are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
