Art Cart Alpine Rally — Whoa Nelly Sledding Hill
Get your glue guns, goofy hats, and cheering voices ready: the Art Cart Alpine Rally is back at Whoa Nelly Sledding Hill (Aspen Recreation Center) on Saturday, February 7, 2026. Evening festivities run 6:00–8:00 p.m.; food service begins at 5:30 p.m. The course favors clever, sturdy builds over straight-line speed, and its tight, spectator-friendly layout makes for thrilling viewing.
Who should come
Families, tinkerers, makers, and anyone who enjoys playful competition and creative chaos. Builders of all ages are invited to convert sleds into “art carts” and race them in timed, bracket-style heats. This year we’re offering 12 adult and 12 kid entry slots — bring imagination and a bit of elbow grease.
Registration and important dates
– Opens: January 1 at 8:00 a.m. – Closes: When capacity is reached or February 1, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Sign up early — organizers expect a sellout. On-site registration may be possible depending on remaining slots and safety checks.
What to expect
– Racing format: Timed heats leading to single-elimination brackets. Judges evaluate both speed and design, so make something that looks great and holds together. – Awards: Prizes for Fastest and Most Creative, with separate categories for kids and adults. – Atmosphere: Live music, warming fire pits, a DJ, and local food trucks (Slow Groovin’ BBQ, The Rolling Fork, plus hot chocolate from The Dreamery). Expect lots of cheering and community spirit. – Support: Event staff and volunteers will be on hand to help with logistics.
Safety, logistics, and accessibility
Safety comes first. All racers must wear certified helmets; additional protective gear may be required. Course marshals will run the heats and a staffed first-aid station will be on-site, with clear rapid-access lanes for emergency vehicles. Accessible routes and designated viewing areas will be provided — consult the event map online or at the entry points for details.
Parking and transportation
Parking at the Recreation Center will be closed during the rally. Use the free RFTA bus or park at the Tiehack or Aspen High School lots. Organizers will operate a drop-off/pick-up zone near the assembly area and employ signage and marshals to keep pedestrian traffic moving smoothly.
Build tips for competitors
– Prioritize durability: simple, robust construction usually outlasts delicate decoration. – Test before you arrive: inspect running parts, bring repair tools and spare fasteners. – Mind the electronics: secure and label batteries and wiring. – Dress for the weather: insulated layers, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy boots will keep you comfortable between heats.
For spectators
Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot and navigate limited parking. Expect short walks over packed snow and brief pauses between heats for judging and course maintenance. Support the vendors — food and drink purchases help sustain the event.
Community activities
Not racing? Join a free lantern-making workshop at the Reb Brick on Thursday, February 5, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. Lanterns will line the path from the food trucks to the race area and remain on display during the rally — a pretty way to contribute to the spectacle.
Past winners and spirit
The rally has a reputation for whimsy and inventiveness. Recent winners include kid-division champs “Giant Gummy Bear Escape” (Bond Bremen and Atlas Washington) and adult winners “The Flying Drumstick” (Sam Rose and Omer Roffe). Creative prizes have gone to entries like Aspen Beavers’ “Dam Good” (Nicholas and CJ Khuong) and “Beware of Bear” (Smoking Pat and Floatato). Expect more clever themes and spirited competition this year.
Who should come
Families, tinkerers, makers, and anyone who enjoys playful competition and creative chaos. Builders of all ages are invited to convert sleds into “art carts” and race them in timed, bracket-style heats. This year we’re offering 12 adult and 12 kid entry slots — bring imagination and a bit of elbow grease.0