It’s almost mayhem time as the Rocky Mountain House Lions Club invites everyone to the 44th annual Demolition Derby at North Saskatchewan River Park.

The longstanding tradition is the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year, raising tens of thousands of dollars that are given back to the community.

The rules are simple: cars bang and crash into one another, and the last one standing is the winner, says demolition derby chair Kevin Harrold. Trophies and cash prizes will be awarded to the victors.

The destruction will be taken up a notch this year, with the introduction of a new class — SUVs — for the 2026 season.

Returning demolition categories include full-size cars, trucks, six-cylinder minis and four-cylinder minis, among others.

Events include the figure-eight race and direct hits. While some heats can take 15 to 20 minutes, Harrold says the wreckage happens very quickly in others.

While the destruction is all great fun, Harrold says the event raises money for important causes close to home in Rocky Mountain House.

Recent benefiting projects include the Rocky bike park, sports equipment for local kids and helping people who have lost their homes to fire, among others.

“Anywhere we see a need, we bring it to the club, vote on it, and help the people out,” says Harrold, who adds the derby raises an average of $45,000 annually.

Admission is $20, cash only, while children 10 and under are free. A concession will be available during the event, and beer gardens will be on site.

The derby takes place Sunday, Aug. 30, at North Saskatchewan River Park, with the first events beginning at 12:30 p.m.