Up until a few years ago, if someone mentioned derby to me I would think horses and hats.
It wasn’t until my family relocated to Spicewood that we heard of the Spicewood Destruction Derby.
This event is held every fall and is a must attend for any self-respecting Spicewood resident. Okay … that might be a little heavy handed. If you like to throw back a beer in the heat of the day and watch things catch on fire, then this is the place for you!
My first encounter with the Spicewood Destruction Derby was a real eye-opener. Not knowing what exactly a Destruction Derby entailed, I was in for a real treat.
You may view something like a demolition derby as a redneck reunion. That frankly just makes it more endearing to me. There’s something really special about the every day Joe getting together with 4,000 of his neighbors kicking back and letting loose for a day of fun for a good cause.
The Spicewood Destruction Derby started back in 1991 and is held behind the Spicewood Fire Hall. This is an event where people come and fill the stands to watch their neighbors, friends, and local businesses pull out all the stops with the trashiest, most junked up jalopy they can find.
The spectators wait with anticipated breath as the cars crash into each other — repeatedly — secretly hoping something will blow up. This may sound violent, but it is all in good fun and for a good cause. All proceeds go to support the Volunteer Fire Department in Spicewood.
This year’s derby is the 25th annual and will be held on Saturday, September 10 at 9805 Hwy 71 in Spicewood. (map)
- Gates open at 4pm and the derby begins at 6pm.
- Adults are $10 each and children under twelve are only $5.
- Food and drinks will be sold on-site.
- New this year: glass containers and personal coolers are not allowed.
Load up the family and come on out for a hilarious and unexpectedly good time!
Editor’s note: The original version of this post was published on September 10, 2015. It has been updated for this year’s event.
Post image via Creative Commons, Randall Chancellor on Flickr.
