It’s a tradition along Erie’s State Street—right outside our studio—that continues to draw excitement year after year.
The 2026 Erie All-American Soap Box Derby brought fun, competition, and family participation to the city, as racers took to the course in gravity-powered cars. Competitors of various ages raced across multiple divisions, including Stock, Super Stock, and Masters.
The event harkens back to a simpler time, long before screens dominated daily life, and participants say that’s part of what makes it so special. Young racers and their families embraced the hands-on, community-driven experience.
Racers noted that this year’s State Street course presented some challenges, with a few bumps along the way. Still, competitors pressed on, focusing on technique and control to navigate the course successfully.
Winners from Erie will now advance to the 88th FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby World Championships, set to take place July 11–18 in Akron, Ohio, where they’ll compete against top racers from across the country.