The Red Bull Soapbox Race will roll into Des Moines on May 31. Thousands of spectators are expected to attend the event near the Des Moines State Capitol grounds. In 2022, the event drew more than 25,000 spectators to Des Moines. This year’s race is expected to deliver more than $1 million in economic impact, according to Catch Des Moines. This year’s race features several teams with Iowa roots. Soapbox cars, which must be no larger than 5 feet wide, 6 feet high, 10 feet long and 175 pounds, maneuver over ramps and around other obstacles. Iowa entrants include:

• Eager Beavers Shreddin’ Ash from Ames: A team of costumed lumberjack beavers is back with a backwards-driving wood chipper cart, poking fun at Iowa’s battle with the Emerald Ash Borer.  
• The Clog Fathers from Pella: A rolling tribute to Tulip Time and the Dutch culture of Pella in the shape of a giant wooden shoe on wheels.
• Automotive Design Club – Toilet Paper Car from Ames: Iowa State University engineering students bring high-speed ambition in the form of a flying-flap-equipped toilet paper roll.  
• Revenge Against the Corn from Des Moines: After a crash in 2022, this Des Moines squad returns.