What Entertainment and Events are there at a NASCAR Race?

Getting Closer to the Drivers

NASCAR provides fans with incredible opportunities to meet their favorite teams and drivers they watch battle on track every weekend. This list of events are not guaranteed at every NASCAR event, but fans can expect some variation and should be prepared to be adaptable on a race weekend if they are looking to meet their role models!

• Driver Q&A Sessions
  
  • Often held on a main Fan Stage, these are free sessions where fans can listen to Cup Series, Xfinity Series, and Truck Series drivers answer questions about the track, their season, and their racing life
• Autograph Sessions
  
  • While sometimes ticketed or limited, autograph sessions provide a direct opportunity to meet and interact with your favorite drivers and personalities
• The "Red Carpet" Walk
  
  • At many speedways, the top drivers participate in a ceremonial walk or route (sometimes called an "Autograph Alley") from their team area to the driver introduction stage, giving fans a chance for high-fives and last-minute photos
• Live Appearances
  
  • Sponsors and partners often host their own tents, featuring appearances from drivers, team owners, and NASCAR legends throughout the weekend

The Race Day Experience

Many speedways offer an upgraded pass (often called a "Fan Zone Pass," "FanGrounds Pass," or "Pre-Race Access") that grants access to the heart of the action: the track itself. The specifications for these passes are subject to the circuit itself, so if you’re looking to purchase one then, it’s imperative that you check the official website for more information.

Tip: If you’re interested in purchasing an upgraded pass, it is recommended to buy it early as there is a risk it will sell out or become very expensive on resale sites. 

• Pre-Race Track Access
  
  • This add-on allows fans to step onto the racing surface hours before the main event. You can walk the asphalt, take photos, and feel even closer to the action
• Sign the Start/Finish Line
  
  • A highlight for many fans, pre-race access often includes the opportunity to grab a Sharpie and sign the painted start/finish line before the cars take to the track
• Driver Introductions
  
  • With a pre-race pass, you can typically be on the track near the stage as drivers are introduced to the crowd just before the race begins

Fan Zones and Entertainment

The Fan Zone is a central entertainment hub filled with activities designed for all ages. Fans can expect live musical entertainment all weekend long ranging from local artists to more popular singers.

There are also a plethora of interactive games and activations for fans to participate in. This will be the best spot to find food and beverage options as well as purchase merchandise to support your favorite teams and drivers. Many times, sponsors will provide pop ups or other exhibits where fans can get free giveaways, deals on certain items, or just enjoy whatever else the activation has to offer.

• Live Music & Concerts
  
  • Throughout the weekend, speedways host free concerts, ranging from local bands to major national acts
• Interactive Simulators & Games
  
  • Esports enthusiasts and first-time drivers alike can hope on racing simulators and "drive" the track
• Pit Crew Challenge
  
  • Fans can test their skills at changing a tire on a NASCAR
• Sponsor Pop-Ups
  
  • Major sponsors and manufacturers set up multi-story displays with current and historic show cars, interactive technology, and free giveaways
• Kids Zones
  
  • Games, coloring stations, and attractions are available to entertain the youngest race fans
• Unique Attractions (track / race specific)
  
  • Tracks often bring in specialized entertainment, such as arcades, professional trick-bike shows (BMX), or other large-scale visual displays.

Race Weekend Traditions

There are certain events that make a NASCAR weekend as special as it is. This list of NASCAR traditions are not always held at every single event, but they’ve become fan favorite staples that are implemented at the major events over the course of the NASCAR season. 

• The Hauler Parade
  
  • Often held on Thursday or Friday evening, this is where the massive team haulers carrying the race cars drive through the property or around the track, with fans lined up to watch and cheer.
• Camper Parties & Socials
  
  • For those utilizing the on-site camping, many tracks organize nightly events, live bands, or outdoor movie screenings exclusively for campers
• Post-Race Fireworks
  
  • A large fireworks display often caps off the racing action for major night races or weekend events

Looking for more on NASCAR?

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Find out what you can expect when you attend a NASCAR race.