Rev Up the Fun: Build and Race Your Own Car at the Indiana State Museum's Pinewood Derby

Get ready to rev up the fun at the Indiana State Museum's 17th annual Pinewood Derby! While you wait for the month of May, you can experience a different kind of racing in the circle city. The event kicks off today, with cars racing down a 125-foot track that stretches from the 2nd floor of the museum to the lower level.

"The Pinewood Derby has become one of our most popular events, and it's because families can really get involved - it's very hands-on and they can do this together," says Carla Knapp, the museum's communications director. Whether you're young or old, Knapp encourages everyone to join in on the race: "Whether you want to build your car or if you just want to come out here and grab one from our collection and race it down the track, it's something everyone can get involved with."

While speeding down the track and the thrill of winning are part of the fun, you can also learn a lot through the STEM elements of the Pinewood Derby. "There's a lot of science behind building your car - figuring out what happens when there is too much friction or too little weight," Knapp explains.

Race day is set for April 5 and is reserved only for registered racers. Until then, racing is open to the public and included in admission.