File photo READY TO RACE – Wellsburg's Oil Can Derby has, once again, been revived for the community's Independence Day festivities. This year's race is set to take place on July 4.

WELLSBURG — Wellsburg’s Oil Can Derby is set to return as part of the community’s Independence Day festivities.

After a year’s absence, the race, which traces its history to the 1940s, will be held July 4, with a start time of 9 a.m. and a course along Fourth Street near First Ward Park.

This year, the derby is being organized by a committee consisting of Kevin Maloney, Jane Stoner, Samantha Kuzma, Nanci Walker and Nancy Deters.

“You have to live in Wellsburg, or be from Wellsburg,” Maloney said of the race, which is open to youth ages 8 to 14.

As part of the race, participants pilot soapbox-style cars, typically sponsored by local businesses and organizations, down the sloped section of Fourth Street on Independence Day morning. There is a $40 fee to participate.

The race takes its name from the oil cans produced by Eagle Manufacturing, which served as the primary sponsor during the derby’s earliest years.

Those seeking more information about participating, sponsoring a car or race regulations may call Maloney at (724) 914-3969 or Stoner at (304) 670-9731.

The committee also is seeking volunteers to assist with the race.

“The more volunteers, the better,” Kuzma said.

In the event of inclement weather, the Oil Can Derby will be held at 9 a.m. July 5.

The derby is part of a weeklong celebration of the Independence Day holiday in Wellsburg, which officially begins June 27 with a 5K race at 8 a.m. and the Super Kids Derby at 10 a.m.

Festivities will include daily live musical performances at Central Park beginning at 7 p.m. Other activities include a cornhole tournament June 27, a fishing tournament and pickleball competition June 28, a 3-on-3 basketball tournament June 29, a hot dog-eating contest June 30, Kids Day at Central Park and an Oreo-stacking challenge July 1, the Lil Miss and Mr. Fourth of July contest July 2 and the Best Dressed at Central Park event July 3.

In addition to the Oil Can Derby, activities on July 4 will include a flag-raising ceremony with members of Cub Scout Pack 1553 at First Ward Park at 8:30 a.m., a bike-decorating contest at 6 p.m. in the Town Square, the parade at 7 p.m. and fireworks at 10 p.m.