Racers, start your engines! The Wylie 500 Pedal Car race is rolling back into town, and little ones across the metroplex will flock to Wylie for a chance to win the coveted pedal car race trophy. This is one of Wylie’s most well-known events, and if you have little kids, you won’t want to miss it. If you’re a parent bringing a child to the pedal car race for the first time, read on. Here’s everything you need to know before you enter your tiny driver in the Wylie 500 Pedal Car Race.
What is the Wylie 500 Pedal Car Race?
The Wylie 500 Pedal Car Race will be celebrating its 21st year in 2025. Kids ages two to five, from Wylie and surrounding areas, get a chance to race a pedal car down Ballard Avenue in historic downtown Wylie. The race takes drivers down a 500-inch track surrounded by the supportive cheers of friends and family. Proceeds from this event benefit the Wylie Area Special Olympics.
When is the Wylie Pedal Car Race?
The Wylie 500 Pedal Car Race will take place on May 4th, 2025, from 1 PM – 4 PM.
How much does the pedal car race cost?
Registration for the Pedal Car Race is $15 per child.
What ages are eligible for the race?
The pedal car race is open to children two to five years old. The race is split into heats based on the child’s age, so your two-year-old won’t be competing against the seasoned pros in the older division.
How do I register for the pedal car race?
You can register for the pedal car race on Eventbrite. Please register in advance to ensure your child is able to participate.
What comes with my pedal car registration?
Racers will receive a t-shirt and a ribbon. You will receive the t-shirt when you check in, and your child will receive a ribbon at the end of their race.
Where should I park?
Park near the downtown area. Ballard Avenue in downtown Wylie will be closed for the race, so you’ll need to look for a spot on one of the surrounding streets. You can also utilize the church parking lot. If you have small kids, you might consider bringing a stroller in case you have to walk a bit.
Where do I check in?
There will be a check-in tent on Ballard. A volunteer will check your child in and give you your shirt, as well as let you know when your child’s heat will be.
How do the heats work?
Your child will be placed in a heat based on their age. Kids ages two and three will race together, and kids ages four and five will race together. Winners will compete for age division trophies.
If your child is two or three years old, check-in begins at 1 PM and races start at 2 PM. Please arrive by 1:45 to ensure your child is checked in for their race.
If your child is four or five years old, check-in begins at 2 PM and races start at 3 PM. Please arrive by 2:45 to ensure your child is checked in for their race.
If you have kids in different age divisions, please plan to check in by 1:45.
The heats are very short, and usually last just a minute or two (but it can take some time between heats to get all the kids and cars organized!).
Do I need to bring a pedal car to the race?
Please do not bring your own pedal car. Pedal cars are provided by the Wylie Downtown Merchant’s Association. The local merchants donate the cars, and there are many options to choose from.
Will my child have a chance to practice?
Yes! There are lots and lots of pedal cars. All kids will have plenty of time (and cars) to get in some pre-race practice and choose their favorite car (parents – watch those shins in the pedal car warm-up area!).
What if my child needs assistance during the race?
Parents are not allowed on the track. Once your kid has chosen their car for the race, you will move to the sidelines or the finish line. Each child will have a volunteer that can assist them during their race should they need it.
Is there food at the pedal car race?
Downtown restaurants will be open and excited to serve you. Grab some tasty diner food at Ballard Street Cafe and Grill, or head to Frankie’s Casa or La Joya for some Mexican food. You can find barbecue at Bold Barbecue Pit or Linke’s BBQ (Linke’s closes when it sells out). Want something Italian? Pop into Villa Vinci for a great pizza or pasta dish!
Landon, Glen Echo Brewing, and Herman Marshall Whiskey are also open if you’re looking for an adult beverage. Landon and Herman Marshall are on the street next to the actual race. Glen Echo Brewing is located just around the block from the race spot, is family-friendly, and has a great patio.
Pro Tips for the best Pedal Car Race experience
Here are some tips for making the most of your experience at the Wylie Pedal Car Race:
- This event is sponsored by local businesses, staffed by volunteers, and supports the local Special Olympics. Please be patient if there are lots of entries.
- Register in advance. This will ensure your child gets a chance to race.
- Arrive on time. If you arrive late, your child may miss their heat.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. It can be very hot and the race is not shaded.
- Check out local businesses for specials and fun activities happening during the event. This is a great way to shop local and support our downtown businesses! Many times stores will be open with fun specials or activities just for the Pedal Car Race (bonus – you can pop inside for a little air conditioning if the day is hot).
- Don’t forget your camera! Pedal car pictures are the best, and you’ll love the downtown setting for some truly adorable photo opportunities.
- More questions? Check out these pedal car FAQs in case we missed something here.