What’s Happening?

When going to a NASCAR race, the main entertainment is the race, but, there are plenty of things to do at the race track before the race starts. What are all of the things fans can do at the race track, and what incentive is there for fans to get there early?

• When going to a NASCAR race, it’s a good idea to get there a few hours before the green flag. There are plenty of things for fans to do outside of the track before the race even starts, so, fans need ample time to explore everything.
• A NASCAR race is not a typical sporting event where fans show up a bit before the event, watch the game, and leave. In order to fully explore a NASCAR race, fans need to do these things.
• Seasoned fans know some of the best places to go before a race. Fans always show up early to do all of these things on this list.

Tailgate

If fans want to save money on eating at the race track, then eat beforehand while tailgating. This is a great way to eat before the race and enjoy some social time with friends. As long as you bring food, lawn games, and things to keep you cool on a hot day, fans can enjoy a fun day of tailgating at the races.

Fans can also enjoy tailgating in campgrounds after the race. Especially if traffic is backed up after a race, fans can pass the time with something like this in the campgrounds.

Shop for Merchandise

Outside or inside all NASCAR race tracks, there are merchandise haulers or tents scattered about. Not every driver has a merchandise tent, but, typically, manufacturers, the tracks, and race teams do. This is a great way to get unique souvenirs such as event die-casts, t-shirts, and everything in between.

Some of those merchandise can be found online, but, it is always great to see these types of souvenirs in person. Fans can look at exactly what they will be purchasing.

Explore Manufacturer and Sponsor Displays in the Midway

Manufacturers and sponsors typically have displays alongside the merchandise tents and haulers. These are great places to look for free souvenirs and driver appearances. Sometimes, fans will find fun Q&As and autograph opportunities.

If you want to look for driver appearances, the midway behind the grandstands is usually the place to go. Sponsors will often have drivers making appearances throughout the day, and there are usually schedules for that around the midway.

Explore Pit Road and the Track

Most race tracks offer a pit pass or pre-race experience package that you can buy alongside a ticket. This allows many fans to explore Pit Road and the race track before the race. It also allows fans to be up close to the stage during driver intros.

It’s a good idea for fans to bring a permanent marker into the venue to sign the wall or even the start-finish line. It’s always cool to walk on a NASCAR race track and be close to NASCAR pit road.

There are plenty of things to do at a race track before a race starts. What are some other fun things to do before a race?