Here’s everything you need to know about the 2019 DFW Red Bull Soapbox Race.
The Basics
Thanks to 2012’s incredible turnout, plus one MASSIVE hill, The Colony will once again host The Red Bull Soapbox Race. This international event features amateur drivers racing homemade vehicles against the clock.
The race takes place Saturday, September 28, along Windhaven Parkway (near the Plano Parkway intersection). Gates open at 10:00 AM with FREE admission to spectators of all ages. The race begins at 11:00 AM leaving plenty of time to meet the vendors, chow down on food truck fare, and sip on some Red Bull.
Contestants and Judging
It’s not enough just to cross the finish line, all 50 teams must put on a wild and outrageous show for the audience’s enjoyment – including themed rides and ridiculous outfits. Celebrity judges will score each team on speed, creativity, and (of course) showmanship to determine the top three finishers.
Before the big day, learn about the competitors who are crazy enough to compete. The pits open at 10:00 AM, so be sure to arrive early on race day to meet the teams in real life, see the cars, and cast a vote for your favorite.
Ever wonder how these teams prepare? Follow our city’s team for updates on their build process and see a sneak peek of the car before race day.
Transportation & Directions
On race day, the only cars you should worry about are the soapbox ones. Utilize rideshare partner Lyft and get dropped off closer to the action. On September 28, Lyft will feature a designated event drop off and pickup site. Attendees can use the code RBSOAPBOX 25% off their ride to the event. Simply set Red Bull Soapbox Race as your destination, and eliminate the extra steps of driving and finding a parking spot. After the race, drivers will be available on-site, ready and waiting.
Another greener alternative is to travel by bike. Enjoy a FREE bike valet at the East entrance gate (top of hill). All you have to do is enter from the designated gate and bring your ID!
If you prefer to drive your car, enjoy FREE designated event parking at the The Campus at Legacy West (6501 Legacy Drive, Plano) garage for all motorcycles, scooters, and vehicles under 7 feet tall. Vehicles 7-9 feet tall may park at Hawaiian Falls Waterpark (4400 Paige Road). These lots will be first-come, first-serve and feature frequent shuttle service to Windhaven Parkway, near Barrel & Bones. ADA parking will be available nearby at The Shacks at Austin Ranch (5800 Windhaven Parkway) for those with valid handicap placards.
Complimentary shuttles, courtesy of The Colony Convention & Visitors Bureau and The Colony Chamber of Commerce, will run on race day. Pick up and drop off will take place at participating hotels and restaurants. For more information, visit our website.
Keep in mind, street closures will be in effect along Windhaven Parkway:
- Friday, September 27 – Sunday, September 29 | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Both East & West bound lanes closed from Saintsbury Drive to Plano Parkway - Saturday September 28 | 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Both East & West bound lanes closed from Midway Road to Plano Parkway
Things to Do
Stop by and say hi! During the race, look for our Mobile Visitors Center. Relax while you charge your phone with our free charging stations, play games, win prizes, and get some insider info on the best things to do in The Colony. Vendors and retailers will also be in attendance, including Moosejaw – purveyor of all fine outdoor apparel. Be sure to grab a bite to eat from one of the many food vendors, but more on that later.
Things Not to Do
While the list of things TO do is much longer, there are some prohibited actions and items. Please keep in mind weapons of any kind, outside alcohol, coolers, glass containers, pets (except service animals), tents, bicycles (inside the gates), and drones are NOT allowed.
Food & Drink
Come hungry y’all! There will be plenty of food vendors on-site during the race, and endless nearby restaurant options to enjoy afterward. While you’re here, check out The Shacks at Austin Ranch, a collection of six restaurants with a huge patio for al-fresco dining. Some of our top picks are the OMG Eltoes with Hot Cheetos from OMG Tacos, the Beast Burger Challenge from Dirty Burger Bar, and Crab Mazemen from Ten Ramen.
Stay hydrated with multiple beverage stations located throughout the event. Grab some water, Red Bull, juice for kids, and even beer for purchase. Luke’s Lawn, on the west side of Windhaven Parkway, will be serving mocktails for all ages. After the race, keep the party going at a nearby pub. Barrel & Bones Craft Whiskey Bar and Smokehouse, GRRROWLER’S Tap Room & Beer Garden, McSwiggan’s Irish Pub, and Saintsbury Tavern are all within walking distance.
Accommodations
Stay nearby and enjoy a memorable weekend in The Colony. Multiple hotels within a 10-minute drive offer modern accommodations for race spectators. Check out some of these of these special offers:
- Courtyard – Dallas Plano/The Colony
- Holiday Inn – Plano-The Colony
- Fairfield Inn & Suites – Dallas Plano/The Colony
- Residence Inn – Dallas Plano/The Colony
- Staybridge Suites – Plano-The Colony
For a complete listing of accommodations in The Colony, visit our website.
In addition to the Red Bull Soapbox Race, check out upcoming events around town or build a custom itinerary so you don’t miss a thing.
Wanting more?
For any further questions, please visit the Red Bull Soapbox Race FAQ page. Can’t make it to this year’s race? Stream all the shenanigans live on Red Bull TV or on the first ever Red Bull 4K broadcast on DIRECTV.
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