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NASCAR action at Watkins Glen International Raceway
NASCAR action at Watkins Glen
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NASCAR Excitement at Watkins Glen

Aug 05, 2025
Explore Finger Lakes
2 mins

Tips for Enjoying Race Week at Watkins Glen

NASCAR Excitement Returns to Watkins Glen for 2025

The engines are revving and the stakes are high as Watkins Glen International gears up for another action-packed NASCAR race weekend, highlighted by the Go Bowling at The Glen — one of the final three races before the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs begin.

This year’s event brings added intensity, with only a few spots left in the postseason lineup. Drivers like Tyler Reddick, Alex Bowman, and Chris Buescher are battling for crucial points in hopes of securing their place. Fans can also look forward to the return of the Truck Series, racing at The Glen for the first time since 2021.

There’s more to the weekend than just on-track drama. Visitors can enjoy a full schedule of events, including:

  • 🎉 Tuesday, August 5: Grand Opening of the new Dandy Trackside fan store

  • 🥃 Thursday, August 7: John Hunter Nemechek visits Finger Lakes Distilling for a special bourbon release

  • 🎶 Friday, August 8: A concert by the Jared Stout Band and NASCAR Foundation’s Speediatrics Fun Day Festival for local children

  • 🍩 Saturday, August 9: “Donuts with Dawn” featuring WGI President Dawn Burlew, plus live music by Tim Dugger

  • 🧑‍🎤 Sunday, August 10: Pre-race Driver Red Carpet Walk and the Go Bowling at The Glen main event

While you're in town for the race, take time to explore Watkins Glen itself — a charming village in the heart of New York’s Finger Lakes region. Hike the stunning Watkins Glen State Park Gorge Trail, sip local wine at nearby Seneca Lake Wine Trail, enjoy lakeside dining, or browse downtown shops and cafés. Whether you're a racing fan or just along for the ride, there's plenty to enjoy beyond the grandstands.

With fan-friendly upgrades to the track, hometown crew members in the spotlight, and plenty of entertainment off the track, this year’s race weekend promises to be one of the most memorable yet.

The course was opened in 1956 to host auto races previously held on public roads in and around the village.