How the Grand Prix Brings Community Together—and Steers Families Toward Jesus
Picture This.
A father and daughter, sitting at the kitchen table, are sketching a creative design as they dream up their prize-winning car for the upcoming Awana Grand Prix™. She’s imagining bright colors and sparkles; he’s talking about aerodynamics and speed.
The dad hasn’t set foot in a church in years, but he can’t help but say “yes” to attending a pre-race pit party, hosted by his daughter’s Awana Club. It’s there that he meets Jim and Doug, two older church members who freely share their power tools and expertise. Between conversations about sandpaper and spray paint, he’s experiencing the love of Jesus in simple, authentic ways.
Later that week, the daughter and her mom drive to the craft store, pick out glitter paint and stickers, and head home to make the car truly shine. As she brushes on color and mom heats up the hot glue gun, their conversation drifts to what the daughter has been learning about Jesus. It’s a simple, unhurried moment they’ll both remember.
Then, on Grand Prix night, siblings, parents, grandparents, extended family and friends gather at the church for an evening of high-energy fun and fellowship. Kids and parents cheer as the race cars roll down the track, while leaders and volunteers update the race bracket, serve snacks and visit with families. Popcorn is flowing, and community is forming around the track. New friendships begin, and most importantly, everyone in the room hears a clear presentation of the Gospel story, some for the very first time.
How Grand Prix Sparks Discipleship in Everyday Life
During Grand Prix season, families come together around something simple and exciting: building and racing cars. It’s a natural extension of weekly Awana Clubs, but with an added layer of creativity, teamwork and shared anticipation.
The Awana Grand Prix™ isn’t just about racing cars—it’s a powerful opportunity to intentionally engage entire families in a fun and meaningful way that goes beyond the normal rhythm of midweek drop off and pickup time. This once-a-year event creates space for bonding, connection and Gospel impact that goes far beyond the track.
Ready to Host Your Race?
If you’re looking for an event that blends fun, family engagement and Gospel impact, the Awana Grand Prix™ is it. So go ahead—set up the track, hand out the kits and watch God use this joyful experience to build relationships and change lives. Click here for supplies and resources to plan your upcoming Awana Grand Prix.
Not an Awana Clubs church? No problem. This event is designed for any church that wants to engage and reach families with the Gospel.
Your BEST family ministry event of the year? It’s right around the corner. 🏁
Shawna is a curriculum and content developer for Awana and is passionate about encouraging families as they teach their children God’s Word. She is a former Cubbie and still attends church with Miss Sue, her precious Sunday school teacher who faithfully taught her God’s Word as a child. She is thankful that while she was still a sinner, Christ died for her (Romans 5:8).
