Conway to Host Second Annual Coffin Races on October 17

Downtown Conway will host the second annual Graveyard Grand Prix Coffin Races on Saturday, October 17, 2026. Presented by Radial and organized by the Conway Chamber of Commerce, the Halloween-themed event features homemade, human-powered "coffins" racing head-to-head through the streets of historic downtown Conway. The action begins at 10:00 a.m. and offers family-friendly entertainment, creative costumes, and community activities.

Spectators can gather along the street course to watch two distinct divisions compete throughout the day. The Competitive Racing Division consists of a 16-team double-elimination tournament battling for the top speed titles. The Spirit Division highlights team creativity, costumed concepts, and crowd interaction through showcase runs. Teams compete for various honors, including cash prizes for fastest coffin, runner-up, best design, and best team theme, alongside awards for creepiest coffin and a spectators' People's Choice award.

Each racing team requires five participants aged 16 or older—one rider designated as "The Ghost" and four pushers. All entries undergo safety inspections prior to the event, requiring four functioning wheels and secure controls. Riders must wear helmets, and pushers are strongly encouraged to do so as well. Alongside the street races, downtown visitors will find local food trucks, Halloween-themed vendors, children's activities, live spooky music and performers, and official event t-shirts for purchase.

Team registration is open for $75, though entry space is limited. Teams must complete a required pre-race briefing ahead of race day. Community members interested in forming a team, applying as a vendor, or viewing race schedules can visit conwaycoffinraces.com for full details.