As the engines roar to life and the city streets of Chicago transform into a high-speed racing circuit, the 2025 NASCAR Chicago Street Course Weekend promises not only thrilling motorsports action but also a heartfelt tribute to America’s service members. This year, the U.S. Army is taking a prominent role, joining forces with NASCAR and veteran-owned businesses to celebrate and support veterans and military families during the highly anticipated event in Grant Park on July 5 and 6, 2025.
A Unique Racing Experience in the Heart of Chicago
The Chicago Street Race, now in its third year, has quickly become a marquee event on the NASCAR calendar. The 12-turn, 2.2-mile course weaves through the iconic downtown, offering fans a rare chance to witness stock car racing against the backdrop of the city’s skyline. The weekend features the NASCAR Xfinity Series and the Cup Series, with a packed schedule that includes practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and two main events: The Loop 110 and the Grant Park 165.
Saturday, July 5 sees gates opening at 9:30 a.m., with on-track action starting soon after. The day culminates with The Loop 110 Xfinity Series race at 3:30 p.m., followed by a post-race victory celebration and a concert. Sunday, July 6, the main event—the Grant Park 165 NASCAR Cup Series race—begins at 1 p.m., with pre-race entertainment starting at 11 a.m. Fans can expect a family-friendly atmosphere, with kids 12 and under admitted free with an adult Grounds Pass, and ticket prices reduced significantly to make the event more accessible.
The U.S. Army’s Commitment: Honoring Service and Sacrifice
Central to this year’s race weekend is the U.S. Army’s commitment to recognizing and supporting veterans and military families. In partnership with Carbliss, a veteran-owned beverage company, the Army is helping sponsor the Vet Tix program. This initiative donates $10,000 to provide tickets for veterans and their families, ensuring that those who have served can enjoy the excitement of NASCAR in a special way.
The collaboration also includes the creation of the “Carbliss Corner,” a dedicated viewing area for military guests and their families. This space offers prime sightlines of the race and a chance for veterans to connect with one another, surrounded by the energy and camaraderie of race day.
Community Engagement and Lasting Impact
The Army’s involvement extends beyond race weekend festivities. NASCAR and its partners have deepened their commitment to the Chicago community by sponsoring youth programs, developing STEM and STEAM curricula with local schools, and hosting educational events throughout the year. These initiatives often include military families, reinforcing NASCAR’s broader mission of supporting those who serve both on and off the track.
The event itself is expected to draw over 55,000 unique spectators, with millions more tuning in nationwide via TNT and Sirius XM NASCAR Radio. The visibility of the Army’s support during this high-profile weekend amplifies the message of appreciation for veterans and highlights the importance of community partnerships in honoring their contributions.
A Patriotic Celebration for Independence Day
The timing of the Chicago Street Race—over the Independence Day weekend—adds a layer of patriotic significance. The city will be alive with celebrations, and the race serves as a centerpiece for festivities that honor the nation’s history and the sacrifices of its military personnel. Special pre-race ceremonies, recognition moments, and entertainment—including a headline performance by the Zac Brown Band—will ensure that the spirit of service and freedom is front and center throughout the weekend.
Making NASCAR Accessible and Inclusive
In response to feedback from past attendees and local residents, NASCAR has implemented several changes for 2025 to make the event more welcoming. These include:
- Free admission for children 12 and under with an adult ticket.
- Significantly reduced ticket prices in many sections, with some prices nearly 50% lower than previous years.
- Expanded viewing options and a new single-day reserved seat option.
- A shorter park build schedule, minimizing disruption to local residents and businesses.
These efforts, combined with the Army’s support, underscore a shared commitment to inclusivity, community, and honoring those who serve.
News in Brief: U.S. Army Honors Veterans at NASCAR Chicago Street Race Weekend
As the 2025 NASCAR Chicago Street Race Weekend approaches, the spotlight shines not only on the drivers and their teams but also on the veterans and military families whose sacrifices make such celebrations possible. The U.S. Army’s active participation ensures that their service is recognized in a meaningful way, setting a powerful example for future events.
For attendees, whether lifelong NASCAR fans or first-time spectators, the weekend offers a unique blend of adrenaline, entertainment, and patriotic pride—a fitting tribute to the spirit of Chicago and the nation it represents.
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