Rube-A-Thon
Rube-a-Thon is a team-based competition where students design and build Rube Goldberg machines—complex, chain-reaction devices that perform a simple task in the most elaborate way possible. Teams are given a set amount of time to construct their machines and craft a story, using a variety of everyday objects, with creativity, complexity, and functionality as key judging criteria.
The goal of the Rube-a-Thon is to encourage innovation, teamwork, and problem-solving, while making learning fun through hands-on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) activities. The event challenges students to think critically and creatively, engineering intricate machines to achieve a simple outcome, such as popping a balloon or turning on a light switch. Watch the recap video below from last year’s competition!
Age Divisions
Apprentice Division: Grades 3-5
Division I: Grades 6-8
Division II: Grades 9-12
Rube-a-thon Competiton
March 7, 2026
The 2026 Rube-a-Thon competition will take place on March 7, 2026, at Rialto High School. This exciting event gives students the opportunity to build complex, creative Rube Goldberg machines and showcase their teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Competition Date: March 7, 2026
Location: Rialto High School, 595 S Eucalyptus Ave, Rialto, CA 92376
Location: Rialto High School, 595 S Eucalyptus Ave, Rialto, CA 92376
Coach Orientation
October 2, 2026
Curious about Rube-a-Thon? It’s a fun, hands-on competition where students build elaborate, chain-reaction machines, known as Rube Goldberg machines, to complete simple tasks in the most creative and complex way possible.
Watch the Coach Orientation zoom recording to learn more about the event and how you can guide your team to success. It covers:
- What a Rube Goldberg machine is and how it works
- Event rules and key updates for 2026
- Tips for coaching a team and building strategies
This session is perfect for both new and returning coaches!