March NASCAR Race Questions - First Time

Question

My wife bought me tickets to the NASCAR race on Saturday March 15th. We are only able to make it to the one day of racing and this is our first time ever attending a NASCAR event and we need your help. I see the race starts at 1:30, but what time should we show up? How long should we expect to be there? Are there pit passes for Saturday? Are there things we should bring with us to the race? Any other things we should be aware of to make it a fun experience?

Answer

How exciting! Attending a NASCAR race for the first time is an unforgettable experience, and it’s great that you’ll be going in March! Here’s a detailed guide to help make your NASCAR race day as fun and smooth as possible:

What time should we show up?

For a NASCAR race, it's a good idea to arrive at least 2-3 hours before the race starts. The race itself begins at 1:30 pm, but there’s a lot to see and do before the main event. You’ll want to experience the pre-race activities, including driver introductions, national anthem, and the excitement around the paddocks. Arriving early also gives you time to park, walk to your seating area, grab food or drinks, and explore the merchandise stands.

How long should we expect to be there?

Expect to be at the track for about 4-5 hours, including the pre-race activities and the race itself. The race itself typically lasts between 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on how many laps and cautions there are. After the race, there may be a post-race celebration or fan interaction event, so you might want to allow extra time for that as well.

Are there pit passes for Saturday?

Pit passes are often sold separately and are typically available for additional purchase if you want to get an up-close view of the teams working on the cars during the race. These passes allow you to access the pit area, where you can see the teams making quick adjustments to the cars. Be sure to check with the track or your ticket provider to see if pit passes are available for your specific event, and if so, how to purchase them. Note that pit passes are usually limited and can sell out quickly, so it’s a good idea to buy them in advance if you're interested.

What should we bring with us to the race?

Comfortable clothing: NASCAR events can be long, so wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Consider layers, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.
Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, especially if you’re sitting in the grandstands where you’ll be exposed to the sun.
Ear protection: NASCAR races are loud, especially when the cars zoom by, so bringing earplugs or noise-canceling headphones is a good idea to protect your hearing, especially if you’re sitting close to the track.
Water: Stay hydrated! Most tracks allow you to bring a water bottle or buy water at the venue, but it’s a good idea to have your own, especially if the weather is warm.
Cash or card: While some tracks accept cards, it’s always a good idea to have cash for snacks, souvenirs, or any purchases made outside the venue. Check the track’s policies for payment methods.
Small backpack or bag: Check with the event organizers for bag policies, as some tracks have strict rules about the size and type of bags allowed into the venue. A small, clear bag is usually the best choice.

Other Things to Be Aware of for a Fun Experience:

Be ready for crowds: NASCAR events are extremely popular, and the crowds can be large, especially near entrances, food stands, and bathrooms. Plan accordingly and be prepared to navigate through a lot of people.
Merchandise: If you want to pick up some NASCAR gear, head to the merchandise booths early to avoid long lines. Many fans love to buy shirts, hats, and souvenirs from the race.
Stay for the entire event: If you can, stay for the entire race, as it often gets more exciting towards the end, especially when the drivers are making their final moves.
Respect others: Remember to be courteous to those around you. NASCAR fans are passionate, but everyone is there to have a great time. Avoid blocking others' views and respect the rules of the track.

With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have a fantastic first NASCAR experience! Enjoy the race and the excitement of being at one of the most thrilling motorsport events in the world!