Carts, cocktails and chaos: A look at the absurd fun of Phoenix Idiotarod 2025

Downtown Phoenix was invaded by a stampede of pure idiocy on Feb. 8 when packs of costumed pranksters went full-tilt boogie on a quest for chaotic fun.

It was all part of the annual Phoenix Idiotarod — the bizarre, boozy shopping cart race where speed takes a backseat to sheer ridiculousness. A total of 15 teams barreled through the streets, stopping at bars and parks for outrageous challenges that tested their endurance, creativity and willingness to embrace public buffoonery.

As is the norm for the Idiotarod, each team had a theme riffing on pop culture and timely events. One was inspired by “Katamari Damacy” and had a cart resembling a scene from the popular video game, though it didn’t snag any debris or grow larger. Another cart took its cues from “The Oregon Trail,” only without any dysentery and oxen-related casualties involved.

There were also carts like “Mel’s Diner,” which was inspired by ‘80s sitcom “Alice,” and the “Super Mario Booze Cruise,” which riffed on the legendary Nintendo series “Super Mario Kart.” Other teams got topical, like one group parodying the rash of killer whale attacks on yachts. (Our personal favorite was the cart starring such Muppets as Animal, the Swedish Chef, Beaker and Miss Piggy, as well as the late Jim Henson.)
Along the way, Idiotarod teams hit various checkpoints at mostly bars and public spaces to tackle absurd challenges. Chugging mystery shots? Check. A three-legged race involving tequila and questionable coordination? That, too.

By the time everyone reached the finish line at Central Avenue nightspot The Grand, some teams were victorious, others were barely standing and everyone was a winner in the game of sheer, unhinged fun. After all, the Phoenix Idiotarod isn’t just a race — it’s a booze-fueled, costume-clad fever dream on wheels. And we can’t wait for next year.

Here's a look at the drunken fun and chaos of the 2025 Phoenix Idiotarod.