NASCAR Weekend in St. Louis: Racing, Music, Parking and What to Bring

Last checked September 9, 2026.

NASCAR returns to World Wide Technology Raceway this weekend. The Saturday race begins at 6:30 p.m., and Sunday's Cup Series race begins at 2 p.m. Both days also include music and fan activities, so arrival time matters even if you already have a race ticket.

This guide covers the details worth checking before you leave: parking, gate times, cooler rules, accessibility and what is included with your ticket.

Weekend schedule

• Saturday, September 12: Gates open at 8 a.m. The NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series race begins at 6:30 p.m. Busta Rhymes is scheduled to perform before the race.
• Sunday, September 13: Gates open at 8 a.m. The Enjoy Illinois 300 Cup Series race begins at 2 p.m. Old Dominion is scheduled to perform after the race.

Check the official weekend schedule before traveling. Timings can change.

Parking and arrival

General parking is listed at $24 per day when paid by card in advance or at the gate. Cash parking at the venue is listed at $20 per day. Review the raceway's parking and vehicle-access information before choosing your route.

Traffic will build well before each race. Leave extra time for the drive, parking and security screening.

What you can bring

The raceway allows soft-sided coolers up to 14 by 14 by 14 inches. Outside food and nonalcoholic drinks are allowed. Glass containers and alcohol are prohibited.

Rules can change by event. Confirm the current list in the official NASCAR FAQ before packing.

Accessibility, cooling and medical help

Accessible seating and parking require coordination with the ticket office. The raceway says first-aid stations will be available in the midway and infield, and cooling buses are planned for the weekend.

If anyone in your group needs accessible parking or seating, contact the ticket office before race day rather than waiting until arrival.

Fan zones and music

The weekend includes the Confluence Music Festival and a new fan-experience area with four themed zones. Some infield activities require a separate Fan Zone upgrade, so check what your ticket includes before entering an upgrade line.

Before you go

• Download or save your tickets before reaching the gate.
• Check the official schedule and weather again on Friday, September 11.
• Confirm your parking plan and payment method.
• Review cooler, bag and prohibited-item rules.
• Contact the ticket office in advance for accessible seating or parking help.

GatewayBestLocal will update this guide if the organizer publishes a meaningful change before the weekend.