Fast-paced soapboxes raced through Kapellendorf – a party full of fun!

Fast-paced soapboxes raced through Kapellendorf – a party full of fun!

There is great excitement in Kapellendorf: As part of this year's village festival, a soap box race is taking place that is shaking up the narrow streets of the Weimar region. Around a dozen participants from the community competed in three age categories. The spectators are thrilled and watch the spectacle on Saturday morning with shining eyes.

The soapboxes themselves are colorful and creatively designed, including the “Wellenreiter”, the “Kolossos Roland” and the “Rennkiste Rosi”. Many of the little racers come from the passion of the people of Kapellendorf, who build these traditional vehicles with a lot of skill and imagination. Soapboxes are four-wheeled, unpowered small vehicles that pick up speed on downhill slopes through downhill drift - in Germany they can reach up to 60 km/h.

A touch of tradition

Not only is this event fun for the whole family, it also marks the revival of an old tradition that has been forgotten for years. The residents around the impressive Kapellendorf moated castle supported the organization of the race. The moated castle, an impressive structure, has an eventful history in the region. Originally acquired as a protective structure by the city of Erfurt in 1348, it later became known as the “robber knight's castle” under the infamous Apel Vitztum von Roßla.

Apel, who once served as a robber baron, made the castle a center of his mischief. Today it is one of the best-preserved castle complexes in Thuringia and attracts many visitors due to its historical charm. But while the castle serves as a backdrop, the soapbox-driving children and young people pursue their passion. The moated castle itself is part of a remarkable architectural heritage and offers a perfect view of the action.

Fantastic speeds and helping hands

Soapbox racing has a long history in Germany and has been taking place since 1904. But the tranquil rides in the self-built “children’s automobiles” are not just a challenge for the participants. Safety is the top priority – safety helmets and working brakes are a must. Kapellendorf and its village festival are the ideal way to combine this tradition with modern fun.

The soap box race not only attracts the residents of Kapellendorf, but also numerous guests who don't want to miss the colorful hustle and bustle. The exchange between the villagers and the anticipation of exciting rides and funny falls make this day a special experience for everyone.

There will be celebrations and racing in Kapellendorf until June 22nd - an event that strengthens the community and revives the old tradition. If you are still looking for a family-friendly destination, you shouldn't miss out on the soapbox sports going on in Kapellendorf!

You can find out more about the exciting soap box race and the impressive history of the moated castle under the links: Thuringian General, Thuringian castles, Wikipedia.