AT THE SPEEDWAY

To make your Charlotte Motor Speedway weekend as smooth as possible, it helps to plan ahead for food, communication, noise, and weather.

Food and drink

When it comes to food and drink, fans are allowed to bring their own snacks and beverages, which is a great way to save money and make sure you have what you like. If you’d prefer to travel light, the Speedway and Concord area provides plenty of food choices inside the venue, from barbecue and burgers to pizza, fries, beer, and soft drinks. Water fountains are available throughout the concourse. Keep in mind that glass containers and large coolers aren’t permitted, and security checks are conducted at every gate, so pack smaller items that are easy to carry.

Communication

For communication, it’s smart to download your tickets, schedules, and track maps ahead of time. Cell networks often slow down when thousands of fans are on-site, so don’t rely completely on mobile data. If you’re meeting with family or friends, choose a meeting spot and time in advance in case you lose contact.

Charlotte is known for its higher noise levels, with the sound bouncing off the grandstands and adding to the atmosphere. Earplugs are recommended for everyone, and proper hearing protection is a must for kids.

Weather

Weather in Concord during early October usually brings daytime highs in the upper 70s to mid-80s °F (25–29 °C) and cooler evenings around the low to mid-60s °F (16–19 °C). Humidity is lower than in midsummer, but a brief shower or thunderstorm can still pop up, so it’s wise to have a poncho handy. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat will help with the sun, and staying hydrated is key–carry a refillable water bottle and take advantage of the fountains inside the venue.

For up-to-the-minute weather updates during race weekend, you can check the Windy forecast for Charlotte below: