describe it

Race Week is back. The 68th running of the Daytona 500 drops the green flag on Sunday, February 16th — and if you’ve never experienced it from inside the track, this is the year to go.

The Schedule

The week kicks off with practice sessions on Wednesday and Thursday. Qualifying runs Friday afternoon. The Duel at Daytona, the twin 150-mile qualifying races, runs Thursday evening under lights.

The 500 itself goes green at 2:30pm ET on Sunday, February 16th.

Getting In

General admission for Sunday is still available through the official Daytona International Speedway site. Infield passes sell out fastest.

Charles King’s section pick: Sections 168–172 on the backstretch give you a clear sightline to the trioval, a bit of shade past noon, and easy exit access. Been sitting in 170 for eleven years. The backstretch crowd is friendlier and the racing comes to you.

Parking

The official lots run $40–$60 and fill by 10am on race day. Save money by parking at One Daytona and taking the pedestrian bridge — spots run $20–$25 and you’re inside the gates in twelve minutes.

Road Closures

International Speedway Boulevard closes to through traffic from 8am on race day. Expect closures on:

  • Bill France Blvd — closed from 7am
  • Williamson Blvd — significant delays from 9am
  • I-95 on-ramps at LPGA and ISB — expect metering

What to Watch For

This year’s field has a legitimate three-way battle shaping up between the Ford Penske cars, the Hendrick Chevrolets, and a Gibbs Toyota that tested faster than anyone publicly admitted. The real race starts around lap 130.

Charles King has covered the Daytona 500 for GoDo Daytona since 2015. Send tips to tips@godocity.com.