NASCAR Clash Weekend Events in Winston-Salem
On and off the track, here’s a guide to events happening during NASCAR Clash weekend, Jan. 29 to Feb. 1, 2026.
Race weekend in Winston-Salem is about far more than what happens under the lights at Bowman Gray Stadium. Throughout the weekend, visiting fans and locals alike can tap into a full slate of events across the city, from up-close NASCAR experiences and fan festivals to live music and community gatherings that keep the momentum going well beyond the track. Some events are directly tied to NASCAR, while others simply amplify the city’s race-weekend buzz.
Below are several highlight events taking place during Clash weekend, along with key race details.
EVENTS AROUND THE CITY
Thursday, January 29
NASCAR Trivia Night at Fiddlin’ Fish
• Where: Fiddlin’ Fish Brewing Co.
• Time: 7–9 p.m.
• Cost: Free
Kick off the weekend with a NASCAR-themed trivia night at one of Winston-Salem’s favorite breweries. Test your racing knowledge, compete for prizes, and enjoy the pre-race buzz alongside fellow fans. Trivia is free to play, with NASCAR appearances being explored. A food truck will be onsite, select pints will be available for $5, and fans are encouraged to show up in bold, old-school NASCAR or race-day style, with prizes awarded for the most spirited looks.
Friday, January 30
NASCAR Clash Fan Preview
• Where: WS Fairgrounds Event Center
• When: Friday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
• Cost: $23 adult | free for kids 10 & under
Start Cook Out Clash weekend with the all-new Clash Fan Preview, an immersive fan experience offering rare, up-close access to NASCAR before the action moves to Bowman Gray. Fans can get inches from NASCAR Cup Series cars, meet current drivers and legends during autograph sessions, snap photos with the Bobby Allison Memorial Trophy, and explore interactive features including iRacing simulators. Live DJ-hosted programming and driver Q&As keep the energy high.
• Good to know: This is a ticketed event. The Hauler Parade will depart from the Fan Preview, allowing attendees to take part.
NASCAR Clash Hauler Parade
• Where: Downtown, Research Parkway
• When: Friday, 2:30 p.m.
• Cost: Free
Race weekend arrives in Winston-Salem as NASCAR Cup Series team haulers roll through the city on their way to Bowman Gray Stadium. Fans can line the route for a rare, up-close look at the massive, colorful haulers traveling together through town, signaling the official start of race weekend. The best viewing area is along the two-mile stretch of Research Parkway connecting downtown to Bowman Gray. View route map.
• Good to know: The start time is tentatively set for 2:30 p.m., but fans are advised to find a spot along the route by 2 p.m.
FanFare on Fourth
• Where: Merschel Park, downtown Winston-Salem
• When: Friday, 3:30–5 p.m.
• Cost: Free
Downtown turns up the energy with FanFare on Fourth, a free, family-friendly fan festival celebrating The Clash. Fans can meet NASCAR driver Rajah Caruth, see Dale Earnhardt’s iconic race car on display, test their skills in racing simulators, and enjoy food vendors, a live DJ, giveaways, and interactive booths from local attractions. Kaleideum will have a hands-on station at the festival where young fans can build their own cars and also offer discounted museum admission.
• Good to know: This event is free and open to all. Parking is available at nearby decks, including Liberty Plaza Public Parking at 235 Town Run Lane (map).
Nashville Nights: Ultimate ’90s Country
• Where: The Ramkat
• When: Friday, 8 p.m.
• Cost: Tickets start at $25
Keep the night going with Nashville Nights, one of the nation’s top ’90s country tribute bands. Expect a high-energy singalong packed with hits from Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, Brooks & Dunn, and more. General admission tickets start at $25, with premium and reserved seating available for $50.
Sunday, February 1
The Clash: Cars & Coffee
• Where: Downtown, Fifth and Main Streets
• Time: 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
• Cost: Free
Kick off race day at Cars & Coffee, a free, family-friendly meetup open to car enthusiasts, NASCAR fans, and the community. Sponsored by NASCAR, the event features NASCAR showcars, classic and custom vehicles, food trucks, music, and more. The event takes place in downtown Winston-Salem at the corner of Fifth and Main Streets. (View map and tentative layout.)
EVENTS AT THE TRACK
Saturday, January 31
NASCAR Clash: Madhouse Classic & More
• Where: Bowman Gray Stadium
• When: Saturday; gates at 10 a.m.; first race at 1 p.m.
Saturday delivers a full day of short-track action led by the return of the Cook Out Madhouse Classic. The invitation-only event features top Bowman Gray drivers and special guests competing in two marquee races, followed by NASCAR Cup Series practice and qualifying. Fans can expect nonstop on-track action, local racing pride, and a preview of the stars who will headline Sunday night. Below are some key times to know for Saturday's festivities:
• 10:00 AM - Clash Fan Fest opens (Bowman Gray Stadium East Lot)
• 10:15 AM - Cook Out Madhouse Classic practice and qualifying (stadium gates open at 10 a.m.)
• 1:00 PM - Madhouse Classic race, Stadium Modified Division
• 2:45 PM - Madhouse Classic race, Stadium Sportsman Division
• 6:00 PM - Cook Out Clash practice and qualifying (Cup Series)
*NOTE: Limited tickets remain available. Visit The Clash website for ticket details.
Sunday, February 1
NASCAR Cook Out Clash (main event)
• Where: Bowman Gray Stadium
• When: Sunday; gates at 1 p.m.; racing at 6 p.m.
NASCAR’s preseason showcase returns to Bowman Gray Stadium as the Cook Out Clash headlines a weekend of racing at the legendary Madhouse. The nationally televised Sunday main event officially kicks off the NASCAR Cup Series season, with top drivers competing under the lights on FOX. Ticket-holding fans can also add the Clash Fan Track Walk, offering rare pre-race access, photo opportunities, driver meet-and-greets, and live entertainment. Key times to know include:
• 1:00 PM - Parking opens; Clash Fan Fest opens (East Lot)
• 3–5 PM - Clash Fan Track Walk (ticketed add-on)
• 6:00 PM - Cook Out Clash Last Chance Qualifier
• 8:00 PM - The Cook Out Clash, broadcast live on FOX
*NOTE: Limited tickets remain available for both the race and Track Walk. More day-of events and schedules are available on NASCAR's Clash site here.
More Happening Across Winston-Salem
More Clash-related events and fan experiences are still in the works, with additional details to be announced as race weekend approaches, so be sure to check back for the latest updates!
Beyond NASCAR, the city will be buzzing all weekend long with everything from karaoke nights and true crime tours to college basketball and live entertainment. To see everything happening around town during Clash weekend, explore our Events Calendar for a full lineup of things to do.
In the meantime, our Clash 2026 page is your go-to for everything you need, including hotel deals, dining guides, track FAQs, and tips for making the most of your time in Winston-Salem.
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