📨  The Latest Go-To Newsletter: 📅 Top May Events

📨  The Latest Go-To Newsletter: 📅 Top May Events

Watch Weekly Races at Bowman Gray Stadium

Get ready for roaring engines, screaming fans, and high-speed thrills when you watch weekly races at Bowman Gray Stadium!

Updated April 2026

Racing at Bowman Gray in Winston-Salem
Photo courtesy of Bowman Gray Stadium Racing

What is Bowman Gray Stadium?

Known as “The Madhouse,” Bowman Gray Stadium is NASCAR’s first and longest-running weekly track, bringing entertainment to Winston-Salem since 1937. The stadium is typically packed with over 15,000 fans cheering on their favorite racers.

NASCAR became the manager of Bowman Gray’s racing operations in 2024 after acquiring Winston-Salem Speedway Inc. NASCAR’s lease with the City of Winston-Salem runs through 2050.

  • Bonus: NASCAR held its Cup Series season opener, The Clash, at the stadium in 2025 and 2026.

 

When Are the Races?

Races take place every Saturday starting at 8 PM. The stadium’s gates open at 6 PM.

Unless otherwise indicated, each week features four classes of competition: Modified, Sportsman, Street Stock, and Stadium Stock.

 

The Details

Low ticket prices are part of why so many people flock to the stadium each week! Adult admission is $15, child admission (ages 6-11) is $2, and children ages 5 and under get in for free. All seating is general admission.

While the stadium has concessions, attendees are also allowed to bring in their own food. Coolers are permitted, but no alcohol may be brought into the stadium.

For children and those with sensitive ears, we recommend bringing earplugs. Between the racecars and the fans, the stadium can get very loud.

 

History at Bowman Gray Stadium

Ready for some quick takes on the stadium’s history?

  • The founding fathers of NASCAR — Bill France Sr. and Alvin Hawkins — were responsible for starting racing competitions at Bowman Gray.
  • Richard Petty, a famous NASCAR racer, won his 100th race at the stadium on August 22, 1969.
  • Richard Childress, a local racing legend (and the name behind Childress Vineyards), fell in love with racing when he had a job selling concessions at the stadium.

 

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