A Guide to the Kap Kraze Country Derby

Kapuskasing, Ontario's signature summer event is back in 2024. Check out everything you need to know for this epic 2-day party.

Hey there, adventure seekers and thrill enthusiasts! If you're looking for an unforgettable summer experience, look no further than Kapuskasing, Ontario—also known as The Model Town of the North. Mark your calendars for July 26 and 27, 2024, because Kapuskasing’s most thrilling summer bash, the Kap Kraze Country Derby, is back and bigger than ever!

What's the Schedule for the Kap Kraze Country Derby?

Friday, July 26: Tailgate Party

The fun kicks off on Friday at the Derby Fairgrounds (right across from the Sports Palace) with a Tailgate Party that runs from 5 pm to midnight. Imagine this: a food and vendor marketplace bursting with local flavours and crafts, a beer garden to keep the good vibes flowing, and kids’ inflatables and games that will keep the little ones entertained from 5 pm to 9 pm.

Four young adults at a concert holding cans of beer.

Rev your engines! There’s a derby car showcase and a chance to meet the derby drivers starting at 5 pm. If you’ve got a competitive streak, don’t miss the Washer Tournament – part 1 kicks off at 6 pm.

As the sun sets, get ready for live music featuring Cochrane’s own Eric Girard from 9 pm to 11 pm. And just when you think it can’t get any better, a spectacular fireworks display will light up the night sky at 10:30 pm. Trust me, you’ll want to tell all your friends about this one!

A man with a guitar in black and white.
Cochrane’s own Eric Girard 

Saturday, July 27: Demolition Derby and Country Music Concert

Saturday is the main event, starting bright and early at 9:30 am and running until 5:30 pm. The Kap Kraze Demolition Derby is where the real action happens. With six nail-biting categories – Women’s, Youth, Junk Run, Straight Stock Compact, Straight Stock Truck, and Straight Stock Full Size – you’ll be on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Throughout the day, there will be a food and vendor marketplace, beer garden, and kids’ inflatables, and part 2 of the Washer Tournament continues at 9:30 am. Don’t miss the Inflatable Costume Race at 1 pm and the adorable Power Wheels Competition at 1:30 pm.

Power wheels parked in a crowd.

The fun doesn’t stop there.

The excitement continues into the evening with a country music concert at the Kapuskasing Sports Palace. Get your boots ready for line dancing with the Urban Cowboy at 6 pm, followed by performances from The Prairie States at 8 pm and Aaron Goodvin at 9:30 pm. The night wraps up with an after-party featuring DJ Johnny Rivex from 11:45 pm until 2 am. And if you’re worried about getting home, don’t be – there’s a free bus shuttle to Moonbeam at 1 am.

Five country music singers sitting on a stoop. Musician Aaron Goodvin leaning on a table. A DJ in a cowboy hat.
The festival is packed with live music to check out every day.

Meet the Stars: Aaron Goodvin and The Prairie States

Aaron Goodvin is a name country music fans know well. With chart-topping hits like "Lonely Drum" and a CCMA Songwriter of the Year award under his belt, Aaron's high-energy performance is one you won't want to miss. His deep, soulful voice and relatable lyrics make every song an experience, and you'll find yourself singing along before you know it.

The Prairie States are equally impressive. This band has been making waves on the Canadian country music scene with their unique blend of traditional and modern sounds. Known for their tight harmonies and catchy tunes, The Prairie States will have you dancing and tapping your feet all night long.

Ticket Information for Kap Kraze Country Derby

Tickets are a steal for the amount of fun you’ll have. Choose from various options to suit your schedule:

  • $75 All-Access (adult)
  • $55 All-Access (youth, 18 and under)
  • $30 Demolition Derby/Tailgate Party (adult)
  • $15 Demolition Derby/Tailgate Party (youth, 18 and under)
  • $65 Concert only (all ages)
  • Free for kids 5 and under

Grab your tickets at the Kapuskasing Welcome Centre or online at Eventbrite. For more info, call 705-335-2244 or email welcome@kapuskasing.ca. And don’t forget to follow Kapuskasing Tourism and Events on Facebook for the latest updates.

A line of people waiting for Beaver Tails.

Why You Can’t Miss Kap Kraze This Summer

Kap Kraze Country Derby is Kapuskasing’s biggest summer event and it promises to be THE event of the summer. From thrilling demolition derbies and awesome Canadian country music to activities for all family members to enjoy, you’ll have serious FOMO if you miss it. Plus, line dancing and DJ Johnny Rivex are back by popular demand – need I say more?

So pack your bags, bring your family, and head to Kapuskasing for a weekend of non-stop fun. You will not want to miss it!

About Northern Ontario

Welcome to Northern Ontario, Canada! Bigger than Texas, wilder than the west, more welcoming than a campfire in October, Northern Ontario is like no place else. Sunset Country is famous for its spectacular fishing lakes, Superior Country has friendly towns and a superior coastline, Algoma Country has bucket list drives and epic outdoor adventure, and the Northeast provides excellent vacation destinations close to Toronto and other large urban centres in Southern Ontario.

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