What’s Happening?

Whether you’re a die-hard NASCAR fan or just someone looking to experience the excitement of high-octane racing, a NASCAR weekend offers a multitude of opportunities for outdoor fun. Even with the roar of engines in the background and the camaraderie of fellow fans, the race itself is just one aspect of the experience. There’s so much more you can do to make your NASCAR weekend memorable. In this guide, we’ll explore all the fun and creative ways to enjoy your time outdoors during a NASCAR weekend.

Tailgating Like a Pro

• Arrive Early for the Best Spot: Tailgating is a NASCAR tradition, and it’s one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the race-day atmosphere. To make the most of it, aim to arrive at the track early—at least a few hours before the race starts. This secures you a prime parking spot and gives you ample time to set up your tailgating area. Bring a canopy for shade, foldable chairs, and tables to create a comfortable hangout spot.

• Grill & Chill: No tailgate is complete without good food, and NASCAR tailgates are known for their hearty, grill-friendly fare. Pack a portable grill and stock up on classic tailgating foods like burgers, hot dogs, sausages, and BBQ ribs. Don’t forget the sides, such as coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, and chips. If you want to get creative, prepare NASCAR-themed snacks like checkered flag cookies, tire-shaped donuts, or driver-inspired dishes.

• Drinks for Everyone: Keep a cooler stocked with a variety of beverages, including water, soft drinks, and adult beverages like beer and cocktails. Consider making a signature drink for your group—something that reflects the spirit of the event, like a “Pit Stop Punch” or a “Victory Lane Lemonade.”

• Games & Activities to Keep the Energy High: Tailgating is all about fun, so bring along some games to keep the energy up. Popular tailgate games include cornhole, ladder toss, and ring toss. If you have a larger group, consider organizing a mini-tournament with prizes for the winners. For those who enjoy crafts, bring along supplies to make signs to cheer on your favorite driver. 

• Music & Entertainment: A good soundtrack can elevate your tailgating experience. Create a playlist of classic rock, country hits, and your favorite NASCAR anthems to play throughout the day. Portable speakers are a must to keep the vibes going. For added entertainment, consider bringing a portable TV or radio to catch pre-race coverage, interviews, and race analysis.

Explore the Track Area

• Fan Zone: These are a hub of activity and excitement. Here, you can find interactive exhibits, merchandise stands, food vendors, and often, autograph opportunities with drivers. Spend some time exploring the fan zone to soak in the atmosphere and pick up some souvenirs. You might also find simulators where you can test your own racing skills.

• Pit Road & Garage Tours: If you’re looking for a unique experience, check if the track offers tours of the pit road and garage areas. These tours give you a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of a NASCAR event, including how the teams prepare for the race and the intricate details of the cars. You might even catch a glimpse of the teams working on the cars or see drivers up close. Some tracks offer pre-race pit passes, which allow you to walk the pit road and get a closer look at the cars before the race begins.

• Take in the Local Sights: If you have some downtime before or after the race, take the opportunity to explore the local area around the track. Many NASCAR tracks are located in picturesque settings, with nearby parks, hiking trails, or lakes offering a chance to enjoy nature. Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely afternoon at a nearby park, or go for a hike to take in the views.

Camping at the Track

• Comfort Essentials: Camping at the track allows you to fully immerse yourself in the NASCAR weekend. Whether you’re in an RV or a tent, it’s essential to bring everything you need for a comfortable stay. Pack sleeping bags, pillows, a cooler for food and drinks, lanterns, and camping chairs. Don’t forget to bring extra blankets or sleeping pads to ensure a good night’s sleep.

• Campfires & BBQs: Many NASCAR campgrounds allow campfires or provide fire pits, so bring some firewood and marshmallows for a classic campfire experience. Roast marshmallows and make s’mores while swapping stories with fellow fans. BBQ grills are a must-have for cooking up some delicious meals right at your campsite, and it’s a great way to meet new people and share the experience.

• Meet Your Fellow NASCAR Fans: One of the best parts of camping at a NASCAR event is the opportunity to socialize with fellow fans. NASCAR campgrounds are known for their friendly and lively atmosphere. Take a stroll around the campground, introduce yourself to your neighbors, and join in on campsite parties or gatherings. Many fans bring their own decorations, flags, and banners to personalize their camping spot, creating a vibrant and festive environment.

Get Active

• Biking: Explore on Two Wheels: If you’re an avid cyclist, bring your bike and explore the surrounding areas on two wheels. Some tracks have designated areas for biking, or you can venture out to nearby trails for a scenic ride. Biking is a great way to see more of the area and get some exercise before the race. Make sure to bring a map or download a trail app to guide you through the best routes.

• Game On: If you’re attending the event with a group of friends or family, bring along some sports equipment for group games. A frisbee, soccer ball, or football can provide hours of fun in an open area. Set up a casual game and invite other fans to join in. 

Capture the Moment

• Documenting Your Experience: A NASCAR weekend is full of photo opportunities, from the colorful cars and vibrant crowd to the scenic landscapes around the track. Bring a good camera or use your smartphone to capture the moments. Focus on getting shots of the action on the track, but also take time to capture the atmosphere of the tailgate, the excitement of the fan zone, and the beauty of the surrounding area. Don’t forget to take some candid shots of your friends and family enjoying the experience.

• Scrapbooking: After the weekend is over, consider creating a scrapbook to preserve your memories. Include photos, race tickets, wristbands, and other memorabilia from the event. You can also create an online photo album or a social media post to showcase your best moments from the weekend.

Stay Safe and Hydrated

• Sun Protection: Spending long hours outdoors means plenty of sun exposure, so it’s important to protect yourself. Pack sunscreen with a high SPF, hats, and sunglasses to shield yourself from harmful UV rays. Consider bringing a misting fan or cooling towels to help beat the heat. If you’re camping, make sure your tent or RV has proper ventilation to stay cool during the day.

• Keep Water Handy: With all the excitement and outdoor activities, it’s easy to forget to drink enough water. Keep a cooler stocked with water bottles and take breaks in the shade to stay hydrated.