NASCAR Returns to Chicagoland Speedway for a Full-Throttle Fourth of July Weekend

JOLIET, IL. — The wait is finally over.

After several years away, Chicagoland Speedway is once again preparing to welcome NASCAR fans for one of the biggest sporting weekends of the summer. From July 3 through July 5, the 1.5-mile oval will come alive with three days of racing, concerts, interactive fan experiences, and patriotic celebrations as NASCAR returns to Joliet.

Race fans can expect a packed schedule featuring three different racing series, appearances by some of the sport's biggest stars, camping, family-friendly attractions, and an Independence Day fireworks display to close out the weekend.

Friday Kicks Off Race Weekend

The festivities begin Friday, July 3, with the Ashley Furniture 150, showcasing the next generation of stock car racing talent in the ARCA Menards Series.

Fans arriving early can watch practice and qualifying throughout the afternoon before driver introductions and the evening race, which begins at 7 p.m. Once the checkered flag falls, the celebration continues with live entertainment from Nashville Electric Company on the NASCAR Experience Stage.

Families can also take advantage of one of the weekend's best values—children 12 and younger receive free admission on Friday when accompanied by a ticketed adult.

Independence Day Brings More Racing

The excitement continues Saturday, July 4, as the Cuervo 300 takes center stage.

Qualifying sessions begin earlier in the day before the race gets underway at 4:30 p.m. Fans will also find plenty happening away from the track, including interactive displays, fan activities, concerts, and opportunities to experience the NASCAR Experience area.

Children 12 and under are again admitted free on Saturday with a paid adult ticket.

NASCAR Cup Series Headlines Sunday

The weekend reaches its peak on Sunday, July 5, with the return of the eero 400, bringing the NASCAR Cup Series back to Chicagoland Speedway.

The green flag is scheduled for 5 p.m., but activities begin much earlier as fans enjoy a full afternoon of entertainment and driver appearances.

Among those scheduled to participate in question-and-answer sessions or special presentations are:

Michael McDowell
Chase Briscoe
Cole Custer
Daniel Suárez
Noah Gragson
Chase Elliott
Ryan Blaney

Driver introductions begin shortly before race time, giving fans an up-close look at many of NASCAR's biggest names before engines fire.

Live Music Before the Green Flag

Adding to the excitement, country music artist Mitchell Tenpenny will perform as part of the Busch Light Summer Music Series before Sunday's Cup Series race.

Tenpenny is known for chart-topping songs including Truth About You and We Got History, giving fans a live concert before one of the weekend's biggest events.

Fun Beyond the Racetrack

While the racing is the main attraction, Chicagoland Speedway has planned activities throughout the weekend for fans of all ages.

Visitors can explore the Fan Zone, enjoy campground celebrations, visit the LEGO Kids Zone, participate in interactive NASCAR exhibits, and take part in autograph sessions and driver Q&As.

Those looking for an enhanced experience can purchase a Pre-Race Pass, providing access to driver introductions and pre-race ceremonies, or upgrade to NASCAR One Fueled by Elevate for exclusive garage tours, pit road access, and behind-the-scenes experiences. Tailgate parking is also available for fans wanting to make race day a full-day event.

A Fireworks Finale

Following the conclusion of Sunday's NASCAR Cup Series race, fans are encouraged to remain at the speedway for a spectacular Independence Day fireworks show, providing a fitting conclusion to a weekend celebrating both American motorsports and the Fourth of July holiday.

Drive Like the Pros

The excitement continues even after race weekend ends.

On Monday, July 6, the NASCAR Racing Experience gives fans the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a real NASCAR race car or experience the thrill of a high-speed ride-along around Chicagoland Speedway.

Planning Your Visit

Fans attending race weekend are encouraged to review the official Fan Guide before arriving. The guide includes important information about parking, gate entry, seating, camping, accessibility, security policies, maps, permitted and prohibited items, and other helpful tips for making the most of race weekend.

For complete event information, visit the official Chicagoland Speedway Fan Guide.

Tickets remain available for all three race days, weekend packages, camping, hospitality experiences, and premium fan options. Children 12 and younger receive free admission on Friday and Saturday with a paid adult ticket, while youth tickets for Sunday's NASCAR Cup Series race are available at half price.

Fans can purchase tickets through the official Chicagoland Speedway Ticket Page.

After years of waiting, NASCAR's return to Chicagoland Speedway promises to be more than just another race weekend. With top-level competition, live entertainment, family activities, and patriotic festivities, the three-day event is expected to draw thousands of fans back to one of Illinois' premier motorsports venues for a memorable Independence Day celebration.