Excitement is building as Newbury BID Krazy Races returns to the town on Sunday 26th July, with just two weeks to go until one of West Berkshire’s biggest free family events transforms the town centre once again.

Following a hugely successful debut in 2025, which attracted more than 26,000 visitors, Newbury BID has once again partnered with Krazy Races to bring the thrilling soapbox derby back to Newbury, promising even more entertainment both on and off the course.

With 15 teams now confirmed, team entries have officially closed, and organisers are preparing for another spectacular day of outrageous soapbox creations, daring downhill racing and unforgettable entertainment.

In an exciting announcement for this year’s event, visitors will be treated to a special flypast from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. Following the success of similar flyovers at previous Krazy Races events, the commemorative flight will provide a memorable moment during the day, with the final aircraft and timing to be confirmed by the RAF closer to the event.

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight preserves and flies some of the RAF’s most iconic historic aircraft in tribute to those who served during the Second World War. Whether it is a Spitfire, Hurricane or Dakota, the flypast is expected to become one of the standout highlights of the day.

Families will also have the opportunity to meet one of Britain’s best-loved characters, with the iconic Paddington™ making special appearances throughout the event. Paddington will be meeting visitors across the day, providing plenty of opportunities for photographs and adding even more family fun to an already action-packed programme.

Alongside these exciting new additions, this year’s Krazy Races also takes place alongside Newbury’s popular Artisan Market, where talented local makers set up along Northbrook Street, Mansion House Street and Market Place.

The much-loved racecourse will once again begin at Strawberry Hill / Old Bath Road roundabout, before racing down Oxford Street and finishing at The Broadway beside the Clock Tower. Teams from local businesses, charities and community organisations will tackle, obstacles and tight corners in their handcrafted soapboxes, all while competing for a range of awards.

Visitors are also encouraged to meet the teams in the Pit Area, enjoy fun activities with local charities in Carnival Alley, and explore the vibrant Event Village, featuring food and drink, entertainment and family fun.

Ben Beardmore-Gray, Marketing Manager at Newbury BID, said:

“We’ve been counting down the days until Krazy Races returns to Newbury after such a fantastic debut last summer. This year’s event promises even more fun, creativity and excitement, and we can’t wait to welcome visitors from across Berkshire and beyond for another unforgettable free event!”

Danny Scoffin, Head of Brand for Krazy Races and Newbury commentator, added:

“Every year we challenge ourselves to make each Krazy Races event even more spectacular and Newbury is no exception. The racing will be bigger than ever and adding both the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and Paddington gives visitors even more reasons to spend the whole day in the town.

The response from teams and the local community has once again been fantastic and we know Newbury is going to deliver another incredible atmosphere. This year, I’m especially excited to be stepping out from behind the scenes and taking on the role of compère and host. Newbury will be my 23rd Krazy Races event and over the years I’ve seen more than 500 incredible soapboxes take to the course.

I can’t wait to meet all of this year’s teams, put them through their paces on the start line and get the Newbury crowd involved too. I’ll be asking our fantastic spectators to help decide who deserves to take home the Best Performance Award, so everyone will have the chance to play their part in crowning one of this year’s winners.”

With thousands of spectators expected to line the streets once again, Newbury BID Krazy Races 2026 is set to be one of the biggest dates in the town’s events calendar, combining high-speed racing, family entertainment, historic aviation and unforgettable moments for visitors of all ages.

The free event takes place on Sunday 26th July, with activities running throughout the day. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the full programme of entertainment.

Event Schedule

• 10:45am – Official Opening Procession
• 11:00am – Morning Racing
• 1:00pm – Lunch Break
• 2:00pm – Afternoon Racing
• 3:00pm – Third Run
• 3:30pm – Fastest Five Final
• 4:00pm – Prize Giving & Awards Ceremony

Meet Paddington™
Paddington™ will be appearing beside the Clock Tower at the following times:

• 1:00am
• 12:00pm
• 1:00pm
• 2:00pm
• 3:00pm