Demolition Derby

Every year, a strange hush falls over downtown Fernie on Labour Day Sunday. The streets are virtually empty.

This is because, for over 45 years, the Fernie Lions Club has been hosting the Demolition Derby, and thousands of spectators pour onto the demo derby grounds to witness a spectacle no one wants to miss. The demo derby started in Hosmer, moved to Coal Creek, then the Fernie rodeo grounds, and for the last few years has found a permanent home on Railway Avenue. As many as 5000 people come out to enjoy the demo derby which is totally run by volunteers, some of which have been giving their time since the inaugural event. From the first roar of an engine to the last backfire, this event is a great time for everyone, from drivers to spectators, young and old. The enthusiasm of the drivers is contagious, and the crowd roars with each resounding echo of metal on metal. With weight classes for all sizes of vehicles from the smallest through to the truck entries, the entertainment is non stop from start to finish, and along with having the last vehicle standing, the winners and the prize that goes with it, maybe nothing is as important as bragging rights. Grab a burger from the concession stand and a beverage from the refreshment area, buy a ticket for the 50/50 draw, sit back and take in all the action.

With the fire department on standby in case of any flare ups, the crowd cheers on their favourite drivers as metal crunches, dust flies and water spews from broken radiators. Once the dust has settled, and the final mangled wreck has been hauled out on a flatbed, the planning begins for the next year. Since 2012, the location of the Demo Derby has been on a large piece of land, at the end of Railway Avenue. If you cannot find your way, just watch for all the parked cars and follow the noise and the unmistakeable aroma of fried onions.

All of the money raised by the Fernie Lions Club goes back into the Elk Valley to support those individuals and groups that need it the most, so it is a great way to support local charities and have fun at the same time.

This year’s derby will be on September 6. Come out and enjoy the day while supporting the Fernie Lions Club and the community, – it is guaranteed to be a smashing good time!