Soapbox Derby returns as Whanganui Vintage Weekend announced for 2026

The Whanganui Vintage Weekend will be back on January 16 to 19, 2026.

Whanganui Vintage Weekend has confirmed dates for 2026 and the return of a flagship event – the Soap Box Derby.

The annual event will run over Wellington Anniversary Weekend, January 16-19, with four days celebrating all things vintage.

“We are absolutely thrilled to bring the event back to our beautiful city,” event manager Fergus Reid said.

He said the weekend offered local businesses a major economic boost and “is a cornerstone of the Whanganui events calendar”.

The retro markets will line the Whanganui riverbank on Friday, with stalls offering retro or pre-loved clothing, other vintage items and collectibles.

Steam Inc will be returning, offering regional steam train rides throughout the weekend on their steam locomotive and heritage carriages.

It is an opportunity for attendees to experience a nostalgic form of travel from a bygone era.

The Riverside Shindig and Drews Ave Street Party will have extended hours in 2026, continuing into the evenings.

It will feature live entertainment, music, and street food.

To conclude the weekend, the popular Soap Box Derby is back on Wellington Anniversary Day after taking a break this year.

The weekend’s full programme is set to be released in November.

Other information will be released over the coming months – including the Caboodle, Wheels on Victoria, and New Zealand Opera School events.

Previous years have included vintage fashion shows, classic car events, art workshops, and much more.

“Whanganui Vintage Weekend is truly a community effort,” Reid said.

“We can’t wait to see everyone dressed up and enjoying the unique atmosphere that Whanganui Vintage Weekend creates.”