Speedweeks officially kicks off with Feb. 10’s Hauler Parade at One Daytona, just north of the track along International Speedway Boulevard. The event welcomes NASCAR teams and drivers. Cup Series haulers line the streets surrounding shops, restaurants and hotels for a fan-friendly festival with free admission.
A stage is set for driver Q&As while merchandise booths give fans a chance to grab gear ahead of race week.
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“It’s an old-school throwback to welcome the 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. The high-stakes pressure-packed session determines who will lead the 40-car field to the green flag.
In 2025, Chase Briscoe captured the pole position. Alex Bowman looks to continue his qualifying success as he seeks his fourth Daytona pole since 2018.
Thursday
Thursday brings the America 250 Florida Duels at Daytona — two 150-mile qualifying races that finalize positions No. 3 through 40 for Sunday’s 500-miler. The Duels will partner for the first time with the Florida Department of Transportation while celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary. Dignitaries are expected to attend, with announcements to follow.
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“It will be a very patriotic feel and vibe to the entire day,” Kelleher said.
Friday
Friday night features the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series under the lights at Daytona International Speedway. The 100-lap free-for-all features aggressive racing by drivers pushing to rise the ranks.
“It’s one of my favorite events,” Kelleher said. “I just love and enjoy the young guns racing at Daytona. These high-horsepower trucks put on an amazing show.”
The race’s biggest storyline 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 summer’s 400-mile race and a three-time Cup Series champion, Stewart is the most accomplished driver never to 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 wheelmen out there — big personality, a showman,” Kelleher said. “He’s jumping into a pressure situation with a new car, new team, new spotter. He’ll go right into practice and qualifying runs, so it’s going to be a big moment for him.”
Saturday
Saturday delivers the annual doubleheader, beginning with the ARCA Menards Series 200 at noon, followed by the NASCAR Xfinity Series O’Reilly Auto Parts 300-mile race at 5 p.m.
That evening, fans can head off the track for the inaugural “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 additional comedians round out the entertainment lineup.
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Sunday
Sunday’s buildup to the 68th Daytona 500 features a full slate of pre-race festivities.
The Thunderbirds perform their hair-raising aerial demonstration, followed by a concert from Miranda Lambert. The Hard Rock Bet Fan Zone offers driver Q&As and live music. Fans can stroll the infield grass and can sign their name on the start-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 seeks its 11th consecutive sellout.
Tickets remain available at daytonainternationalspeedway.com.
Edgar Thompson can be reached at egthompson@orlandosentinel.com.
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