If you’re often left scratching your head over a gift for dad this time of year, what about making him feel like a kid again? The sixth-annual Marble Falls Soapbox Classic gives adults a chance to relive the adventure of childhood with homemade racecar competitions on Father’s Day weekend, June 19-21.
The wheels start turning downtown Friday evening with a “show and shine” and parade, followed by lighted night racing until midnight. Races continue at noon Saturday and run all day; there’s also a derby hat contest in the afternoon and an evening street dance. Racing finals are Sunday afternoon. Visitors walking around the city’s charming downtown district should keep an eye out for stashes of chalk—race organizers leave them out for children and families to get creative and leave their mark on the festivities.
“It’s an amazing family event,” says race organizer Shannon Heep. “A lot of people have told us that their family comes to our town year after year, and this is what they do on Father’s Day weekend now. Seeing the families out there is really what makes it special.”
While all race drivers must be at least 17 years old, whole families also get into building and decorating the cars before they roll out. The races include two divisions with two courses: one for single drivers going straight downhill, and another for two-person teams that push off to start and slalom a bit before cruising down to the finish line.
The event is free to attend, and there’s always next year if you want to pay the entry fee to get in on the racing action yourself. For more information, visit www.adultsoapboxderby.com.
Looking for more ideas for something to do this Father’s Day weekend? How about these Texas events:
DENTON: Denton Airshow, June 20
DETROIT: Car Show, June 20
GLEN ROSE: Father’s Day Sunset Safari Dinner and Tour, June 20
GRUENE: Old Gruene Market Days, June 20-21
LEWISVILLE: Best Little Brewfest in Texas, June 20
MESQUITE: U.S. Karate Championship, June 20
RIO GRANDE CITY: Father’s Day Trolley Tour, June 21
PALESTINE: Father’s Day Barbecue Train, June 21 (reservations in advance required)
