NHRA - National Hot Rod Association

The countdown is on for one of the biggest weekends in motorsports history in North Carolina, and it all begins in downtown Rockingham.

The City of Rockingham, Richmond County Tourism Development Authority, the NHRA, and Rockingham Dragway have announced NitroFest, a free community celebration on Thursday, Sept. 24, from 6-9 p.m. around Harrington Square in downtown Rockingham.

NitroFest will officially kick off the inaugural NHRA Nationals at The Rock, marking the first-ever NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series national points event to be contested at historic Rockingham Dragway. The three-day national event, scheduled for Sept. 25-27, will serve as the second of six races in NHRA's Countdown to the Championship playoffs, bringing the stars of NHRA Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, and Pro Stock Motorcycle to Rockingham as championship contenders battle for valuable playoff points.

Before engines roar down the quarter-mile, fans will have the opportunity to celebrate with an unforgettable evening in downtown Rockingham.

Country music trailblazer Colt Ford will headline the evening with a free concert beginning at 7:45 p.m., following autograph and meet-and-greet sessions with some of NHRA's biggest stars from 6:30 p.m. until 7:15 p.m.
 

NitroFest will also feature:
● NHRA driver autograph sessions and meet and greets
● Motorsports and automotive vendors and displays
● Race cars on display
● A free Kids Zone featuring bounce houses, inflatable slides, a rock climbing wall, and face painting 
● Food trucks serving a variety of local favorites 
● A beer garden hosted by Rockingham Dragway 
● NHRA, team, and event merchandise 
● A drag racing practice Tree competition 
● Family-friendly activities and interactive experiences celebrating the return of nitro-powered racing to The Rock

Admission is free, making NitroFest the perfect opportunity for families, race fans, and visitors to experience the excitement of NHRA while enjoying an evening of entertainment, food, and community fellowship in the heart of downtown Rockingham.

The NHRA Nationals at The Rock are expected to attract thousands of competitors, crewmembers, and fans from across the country, generating a significant economic impact for Richmond County while showcasing the area's hospitality, attractions, and vibrant downtown.

Whether you're a lifelong drag racing enthusiast or experiencing NHRA for the first time, NitroFest offers something for everyone.

For event information, lodging opportunities, and everything happening throughout NHRA Nationals weekend, visit VisitRichmondCounty.com and RockinghamDragway.com.

Secure your seats here: https://nhra.evenue.net/list/RN1