Food City 500 2025

Visit Thunder Valley for all the fender-rubbing and paint-swapping that Bristol is known for.

The Food City 500 is an exciting event in the NASCAR Cup Series, where drivers go head-to-head to score essential points that can lead them to the playoffs. Over the years, this race has become a fan favorite, delivering thrilling finishes and memorable rivalries. Legendary drivers such as Dale Earnhardt, Jeff Gordon, Kyle Busch, and Darrell Waltrip have left their mark on this race, making it a must-watch for all racing enthusiasts!

The event went by many names. From 2021 to 2024, it was called the Food City Dirt Race, as it was run on a dirt layout. However, in 2024, the track returned to a concrete oval.

Bristol Motor Speedway is a half-mile concrete track situated in the Bristol mountains of Tennessee. Established in 1960, it has earned the nicknames The World's Fastest Half-Mile, Thunder Valley, and The Last Great Colosseum. Since its inception, this track has gained a reputation among fans for the close-quarters racing it facilitates and the iconic "bump-and-run" maneuver that often takes place here.

Be ready for extreme action on Sunday, April 13, at Bristol Motor Speedway in Bristol, Tennessee. The race is set to begin at 3:00 PM Eastern Time.

What to Expect When Attending Food City 500 2025

The racing itself will be a spectacle. Bristol's 0.533-mile short track allows drivers to battle close quarters with constant bumping, rubbing, and aggressive overtakes. The fast-paced nature of the race, with lap times under 15 seconds, means there's little room for error, leading to frequent lead changes, caution flags, and dramatic restarts.

What's great about this Speedway is that the coliseum-style seating surrounds the entire track, and you'll get a 360-degree view of the action from nearly every seat! Due to the speedway's bowl-like shape, the noise level is intense, so ear protection is highly recommended.

You can also enjoy a pre-race concert, driver introductions, autograph sessions, and interactive exhibits. If you're up for this, you'll need the Pre-Race Infield Experience pass! Why not be stage-side during the concert and stay in the infield to watch the drivers being introduced, offering a unique perspective as they prepare for the race?

To prepare for the weather in Bristol in April, dress in layers, pack a waterproof jacket or poncho for unexpected showers, and stay informed about weather updates. Days will be pleasant, but there's a big chance of rain! High temperatures will vary from 63 F to 71 F (17 C to 22 C), while low temperatures will range from 43 F to 50 F (6 C to 10 C).

Tickets

The Last Great Colosseum has a seating capacity of 160,000! That's a lot of space, but considering this event's popularity, you should definitely purchase your race tickets on time.

Prices range from $66.60 to $188.70. Kids 12 and under are just $10 to NASCAR Cup Series races.

For the next-level experience, you can choose a premium option. The Bristol Club is your best chance to enjoy the race from the top grandstand seats! You'll get reserved theater-style seating in a climate-controlled skybox suite, an all-inclusive meal with non-alcoholic beverages (like Coca-Cola products and water), two complimentary domestic beer/wine cooler tickets per day for fans 21 and older, and much more!

Security Protocols

Security at Bristol Motor Speedway is in place to ensure a safe and fun experience for everyone. Expect metal detector screenings at entry gates and bag inspections for permitted items. Prohibited items include weapons, outside alcohol, and large umbrellas. Friendly staff and security personnel will be available to assist with any concerns. Arriving early helps avoid long lines, and following instructions makes entry smooth for all. Most importantly, relax and enjoy the race!

How to Get To or From the Event

Traffic around Bristol can be heavy, so getting there a few hours in advance is best. Parking is available on-site and through off-site shuttle services. Tailgating is a huge part of the experience, with many fans setting up grills, coolers, and games in the parking lots.

The speedway is located at 151 Speedway Blvd, Bristol, TN 37620, and it's accessible via Interstate 81, Exit 69 (TN), or Exit 3 (VA).

Bristol Tennessee Transit operates Monday through Friday from 6:15 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Its routes cover key areas in Bristol, TN, but service may be limited on race weekends. It's best to check the official website closer to the event.

Food City 500 2025 Bag Policy

You can carry one soft-sided cooler (no larger than 14" x 14" x 14") and one bag (up to 18" x 18" x 14"). Both clear and non-clear bags are allowed, but all items will be inspected upon entry. Arriving a bit early and having your belongings ready for inspection can expedite the process!

Have a stress-free time in Bristol with Bounce taking care of your luggage!

Bounce operates the largest luggage storage network in the world. Our mission is to help travelers enjoy their stay in their chosen city, so we offer easy booking, affordable prices, and full support!

Food City 500 2025 Bag Storage

Store Your Luggage With Bounce and Enter the Racing World

You can easily book a luggage storage spot on our website or grab the Bounce app to do the same—whatever works best for you!

The price for storing your belongings is only £3.90 per day. Are you worried that you might have to cancel? No worries - there’s no cancellation fee!

How to Stow Your Bag at Food City 500 2025 With Bounce

• Book: Choose a store in a suitable area, book, and pay online.
• Drop off your luggage: Bring your payment confirmation to the store and show it to the employee to easily store your bags.
• Enjoy this unique experience: Head to the Speedway, find your seat, and prepare for the ultimate fun!

How to Make the Most Out of Food City 500 2025

• Attend the full race weekend: Immerse yourself in the complete NASCAR experience by attending all three major events:
• Friday, April 11: Weather Guard Truck Race (NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series)
• Saturday, April 12: SciAps 300 (NASCAR Xfinity Series)
• Sunday, April 13: Food City 500 (NASCAR Cup Series).
• Plan your accommodations early: Given the influx of visitors during race weekends, booking your lodging well in advance is advisable. If options in Bristol are limited, consider accommodations in nearby cities like Knoxville or Johnson City. Some travel packages offer hotel stays combined with race tickets and transportation.
• Arrive early at the Speedway: To fully enjoy the pre-race atmosphere, including NASCAR driver introductions, concerts, and vendor displays, plan to arrive several hours before the race starts.
• Prepare for the elements: April weather in Tennessee can be unpredictable. Dress in layers to accommodate temperature changes, and consider bringing rain gear. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, hats, and ear protection to ensure a comfortable experience throughout the weekend.

Come to Bristol, store your bags with Bounce, and find out what's so amazing about the NASCAR Cup Series races!