The Daytona Beach area is preparing for a busy start to 2026 as it hosts several major motorsports events at the Daytona International Speedway. The schedule begins with the Roar Before The Rolex 24, a three-day test session from January 22-25, which allows teams and drivers to prepare for the upcoming Rolex 24 At DAYTONA Weekend. This event includes all sports cars and drivers competing in the Rolex 24, as well as two multi-class races featuring the IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge.
The following weekend marks the 64th running of the Rolex 24 At Daytona, recognized as North America’s most prestigious sports car race and serving as the season opener for the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. According to organizers, “The Rolex 24 is the ultimate test of man and machine and has become a fan favorite with pre-race grid access, the popular Ferris Wheel and fireworks, autograph sessions, live entertainment and displays from top manufacturers.” Fans can also attend Taste of the 24 on January 24, an event offering food from local restaurants during race activities. Support races include the BMW M Endurance Challenge on January 24, which launches the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge season.
Stock car racing will be featured at the DAYTONA 500 on February 15, marking its 68th annual running. Events leading up to NASCAR’s season opener include qualifying rounds on February 11 and February 12, along with additional races such as the Fresh From Florida 250 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race on February 13 and other series races on February 14.
Beyond racing at the Speedway, Bert Kreischer will host his first Full Throttle Festival DAYTONA 500 Pre-Party at Ocean Center Convention Complex on February 14. The festival features performances by Lynyrd Skynyrd, Diplo Presents Thomas Wesley, country artist ERNEST, stand-up comedy from Kreischer and guests, BBQ from national pitmasters, tailgate games, and drinks at the Great American Beer Hall.
Motorcycle events conclude Speed Season during Daytona Beach Bike Week. The DAYTONA Supercross returns for its 56th year on February 28 with a course designed by Ricky Carmichael. Progressive American Flat Track starts its season March 5-6 with back-to-back nights of racing at Daytona International Speedway’s Flat Track facility. The historic DAYTONA 200 will take place March 5-7.
Additional short-track racing is scheduled at New Smyrna Speedway and Volusia Speedway Park in Barberville. More information about these events can be found through official channels: Daytona International Speedway (www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com), Volusia Speedway Park (volusiaspeedwaypark.com), and New Smyrna Speedway (www.newmyrnaspeedway.org). Lodging options are available via www.daytonabeach.com.
Daytona Beach is known for its beaches and auto racing history but now offers new attractions, upgraded lodging options, arts venues, parks, preserves, and outdoor activities throughout cities including Ormond Beach, Daytona Beach Shores, Ponce Inlet, Holly Hill, and South Daytona.
For further details or media inquiries contact Andrew Booth at abooth@daytonabeach.com or (386) 255-0415 ext.125.
