Things are going downhill in Highlandtown, but it’s not what you think.
The things are Art Carts, home-made gravity powered racing carts with a driver.
They have been designed by teams of neighborhood folks of all ages, and they will race in the 3600 block of Gough Street, where there is a convenient slope to race on.
The race takes place on Saturday, Oct. 8, at 2 p.m., and there will be music, art, food, and the essential component of any outdoor festival in Baltimore: beer.
The Art Cart Derby is inspired by classic soapbox racing, but with a twist—the carts have to have an artistic aspect. They can’t be entirely functional.
The Art Carts will line up at 2 p.m. for inspection and admiration, and racing begins at 3:30. Beans & Frank, Will Hill and Wasabi are among the bands that will perform.
Teams are encouraged to dress in costume and rally support for their carts and drivers.
Aaron Thomas, left, Scott Peters and Matt Saindon salvage parts for their Art Cart. The Art Cart Derby will be held on Saturday, Oct. 8, starting at 2 p.m. in the 3600 block Gough St. Racing begins at 3:30.
“We wanted to create an event that would give everyone from older adults to school-age kids an opportunity to participate,” said Amanda Smit, Highlandtown Main Street Manager. “We’ve got one cart that is going to be a giant cookie! I can’t wait to see it in action!”
Engineers are betting that the Cookie Cart will not crumble. Photo courtesy Amanda Smit
Meanwhile, at the Laughing Pint up the street, there will be “Art by the Pint,” a retrospective show of artists who have shown in the neighborhood bar over the years.
Admission to the Art Cart Derby is free.
by Jacqueline Watts
editor@baltimoreguide.com
>
