Sonora, CA — The Sonora Chamber of Commerce will host an informational event this weekend for families interested in participating in April’s upcoming Soap Box Derby.
There will be experts from the NorCal Soap Box Derby organization on hand this Saturday, July 18, from 2-4 pm, inside the Sonora Opera Hall. They will answer questions about the race, what people can expect on race day, race car kits, building requirements, safety guidelines, etc.
The soap box derby helps teach kids about sportsmanship, STEM skills, craftsmanship, perseverance, and community involvement.
The Sonora All-American Soap Box Derby will be open to youth ages 7–18, with a chance to advance to the All-American Soap Box Derby championship in Akron, Ohio.
Sonora previously hosted All-American Derby races from 1939-41 as part of a national youth movement. It was an affordable activity that helped build community pride. Races were held downtown, and there was a festival-like atmosphere. Cars were built from scratch, and it promoted STEM-related skills (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).
Sonora’s original event ended after 1941, along with many others nationwide, due to the United States entering World War II, and a community shift to the war efforts.
A non-sanctioned revival of the derby was held on Stewart Street in Sonora from 2001-02, and All-American Soap Box Derby races occurred in downtown Tuolumne from 2010-17 (around the Tuolumne Lumber Jubilee), with several of the winners later competing in Ohio.
Next year’s revival of the All-American Soap Box Derby in Sonora will take place along Stewart Street. It is planned for April 24, 2027.
Click here to view a story about other upcoming weekend events.
