13th Annual Soapbox Derby

KINGSTON-A mostly bizarre combination of traditional soapbox derby and kinetic sculpture competition, the Annual Artists’ Soapbox Derby has become one of the most beloved new traditions in Kingston. Started in 1995 to encourage community participation in the arts, it’s grown into a big event, drawing up to 7,000 people to the Rondout last year. Judging is based on a combination of creativity and engineering, and over $2000 in cash prizes are awarded. Opening procession will feature puppeteer Mark Alexander with his Mortal Beasts & Deities troupe. Also performing are the Energy Dance Group, Trio Loco, and a demonstration of the new Flybar 1200. The derby is sponsored by Donskoj & Co., and the City of Kingston, whose Mayor James Sottile has publicly vowed to bring back the coveted Mayor’s Cup back to Kingston’s City Hall “where it belongs.” The current Cup holder, Saugerties Mayor Robert Yerick might have something to say about that.