Fans can start their engines for Chicago NASCAR tickets Wednesday

NASCAR is back in downtown Chicago next July and tickets for the popular race go on sale Wednesday just in time for holiday gift seekers, officials announced.

The NASCAR Chicago Street Race that revs around Grant Park will return to the city Saturday, July 6, and Sunday, July 7.

“We are thrilled to once again welcome fans back to the city of Chicago for this bucket-list event,” Chicago Street Race President Julie Giese said in a statement.

“2024 will once again have something for everyone, with world-class racing action, A-list concert performances, and a breathtaking backdrop of the city skyline and Chicago lakefront.”

The 2023 inaugural event faced significant pushback with concerns about pollution, safety, noise for city residents and street shutdowns. Although approved under former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, the race took place under the tenure of Mayor Brandon Johnson, who said he wanted to evaluate the three-year NASCAR deal.

But the biggest issue on race day turned out to be rain showers, which drivers powered through, as local and international fans cheered them on.

The city obtained concessions for 2024, including NASCAR agreeing to shorten setup and tear down time, as well as address costs incurred by the city for security and logistics.

But the 12-turn, 2.2-mile course will be the same, with stock cars speeding along Michigan Avenue, Columbus Drive, DuSable Lake Shore Drive and past the Buckingham Fountain.

And as in 2023, high-profile bands and entertainment are coming to Grant Park over the holiday weekend.

Tickets are still pricey but NASCAR is offering single-ticket and youth options.

For information and tickets, go to nascarchicago.com.