Speedweeks officially kicks off with the Hauler Parade on February 10 at One Daytona, just north of the track along International Speedway Boulevard. The event welcomes NASCAR teams and drivers. Cup Series transporters line the streets surrounding shops, restaurants and hotels for a friendly festival with free admission.
A stage is ready for driver questions and answers while merchandise stands give fans the opportunity to pick up gear ahead of race week.
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“It’s a step backwards to welcome NASCAR competitors to town,” Daytona International Speedway President Frank Kelleher told the Orlando Sentinel.
Wednesday
After Media Day, attention turns to Daytona 500 qualifying, which sets the front row for the Feb. 15 race. This high-stakes, high-pressure session will determine who leads the 40-car field to the green flag.
In 2025, Chase Briscoe took pole position. Alex Bowman looks to continue his success in qualifying as he seeks his fourth pole at Daytona since 2018.
THURSDAY
On Thursday, the America 250 Florida Duels will be held at Daytona – two 150-mile qualifying races that finalize the No. 3 through 40 positions for Sunday’s 500-miler. The Duels will partner with the Florida Department of Transportation for the first time while celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary. Dignitaries are expected, and announcements will follow.
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“It’s going to be a very patriotic atmosphere and vibe all day,” Kelleher said.
Friday
Friday night, the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series takes place under the lights at Daytona International Speedway. The 100 free-for-all laps feature aggressive racing by drivers striving to climb the ranks.
“It’s one of my favorite events,” Kelleher said. “I love and appreciate the young drivers who race at Daytona. These high-horsepower trucks put on an incredible show.”
The biggest storyline of the race is Tony Stewart’s return to Daytona International Speedway. The 54-year-old last raced at the track in July 2016. A four-time winner of the summer 400-mile race and three-time Cup Series champion, Stewart is the most accomplished driver to never win the Daytona 500.
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Friday also marks Dodge’s return to Daytona, with Stewart behind the wheel.
“Smoke is one of the best drivers out there – a great personality, a showman,” Kelleher said. “He finds himself in a pressure situation with a new car, a new team, a new observer. He’s going straight into practice and qualifying, so it’s going to be a big moment for him.”
SATURDAY
On Saturday, the annual doubleheader begins with the ARCA Menards Series 200 at noon, followed by the O’Reilly Auto Parts NASCAR Xfinity Series 300-mile race at 5 p.m.
That evening, fans will be able to leave the track for the first “Full Throttle Festival” at the Ocean Center Convention Center. Comedian Bert Kreischer headlines, with Lynyrd Skynyrd scheduled to perform a full set. DJ and producer Diplo, country artist Ernest and other comedians round out the entertainment lineup.
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Sunday
Sunday’s build-up to the 68th Daytona 500 includes a full series of pre-race festivities.
The Thunderbirds perform their breathtaking aerial display, followed by a concert by Miranda Lambert. The Hard Rock Bet Fan Zone features driver Q&As and live music. Fans can walk around the indoor turf and sign their names at the start and finish line. Actor Kurt Russell will drive the pace car.
The Daytona 500 is scheduled to begin at 2:30 p.m., with 40 drivers competing for a record purse exceeding $31 million. The race is aiming for its 11th consecutive sold-out edition.
