On Saturday, Sept. 20, the Volunteer Fire Department in Spicewood, TX will host their big annual fundraiser, the Destruction Derby. The gates at the Spicewood Fire Hall will open at 4 p.m. and races will start at 6 p.m. Get ready for some excitement!

If you haven’t been to a demolition derby before, our Do512 Family Content Manager fills us in on what to expect at one of her favorite annual events…

I have to admit to being a pretty “girly” gal by nature (and upbringing), but as the mom of three boys, I find myself constantly amazed at how much fun I have at events that are anything but dainty. One of these in particular is the annual demolition derby put on by the Spicewood VFD. Imagine the crashing! The smashing! The loud cheering! It is SO MUCH FUN! Watching cars (safely — under watchful eye of the EMS) totally ram into one another provides a surprising amount of stress relief. It’s exhilarating, exciting, and hilarious.

We first heard about this event from a neighbor who usually competes as a driver in the race. When we first went out to support him, we had no idea what we were in for. So I am happy to share my knowledge.

What to know before you go:

• Admission is $10 per adult, $5 per child ages 12 and under. There is also a cooler fee of $5. But it is BYOB, so that is a nice way to save a bit of cash if you wish to have beer at the event.
• It gets ridiculously crowded! Arrive early and expect the parking lot to be crammed full of cars. There is bleacher seating, but it will completely fill up. So if you go with the intention of meeting friends, have a plan in place for saving seats.
• Food will be sold on-site, so bring extra cash for snacks. Although you are welcome to pack your own food, as well, if you prefer.
• Some of the bleachers will be in the blazing sun. So wear a hat and bring sunscreen.
• There are a few indoor bathrooms (with long lines), but there are ample port-a-potties on site. You might want to bring hand sanitizer with you (or whatever might help you and the kids feel clean).
• It is very rowdy and loud. If your little ones are sensitive to noise, this might not be the right event for them. Or plan accordingly with ear plugs/head phones.
• Take note that the rain date is Saturday, Sept. 27. (If the weather is questionable, you can check their website here before you go.)

Go pick your favorite car, cheer it on, and enjoy the destruction!

Have fun!