Buckle up, racing enthusiasts! The iconic Martinsville Speedway, affectionately known as “The Paperclip” for its unique shape, is about to host another heart-pounding NASCAR weekend. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned race fan, this comprehensive guide will ensure you’re fully prepared for an unforgettable experience.
Weekend race schedule- Mark your calendars
The Martinsville Speedway NASCAR weekend is a three-day extravaganza of high-octane racing action, featuring the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, the NASCAR Xfinity Series, and the headline NASCAR Cup Series Cook Out 400. Each day brings excitement with practices, qualifying sessions, and races that will keep racing fans on the edge of their seats.
The weekend kicks off on Friday, March 28, 2025, with the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series taking center stage. Fans can catch the truck series practice at 3:00 PM ET, followed by qualifying at 4:00 PM ET. Following this, you can catch all the action from the NASCAR Xfinity Series, with practice at 5:25 PM ET and qualifying at 6:30 PM ET. The day culminates in the Boys & Girls Club of the Blue Ridge 200, a thrilling Truck Series race that starts at 7:30 PM ET. It’s the perfect way to start your racing weekend with intense, high-speed action from both series.
Saturday, March 29, 2025, is all about building anticipation for Sunday’s main event. The NASCAR Cup Series practice begins at 2:05 PM ET, with qualifying following at 3:10 PM ET. Race fans with Amazon Prime can watch these sessions live from 2:05 PM to 4:00 PM ET. The evening brings the US Marine Corps 250, the NASCAR Xfinity Series race, which starts at 5:00 PM ET. This race offers a tantalizing preview of the racing prowess you’ll see the next day.
The weekend reaches its pinnacle with the Cook Out 400 NASCAR Cup Series race. Scheduled for 3:00 PM ET on Sunday, March 30, 2025, this 400-lap battle will be broadcast on FS1, MRN Radio, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio at 3:00 PM ET. This is the race every fan has been waiting for—the culmination of a weekend of speed, strategy, and pure racing excitement.
Parking – Your first pit stop
Racing fans, rejoice! Martinsville Speedway offers free parking across its expansive grounds. Located at 340 Speedway Road in Ridgeway, Virginia, the track provides ample space for fans to park without breaking the bank. However, the key to a stress-free arrival is timing. NASCAR weekends draw massive crowds, so arriving early isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a strategy. The earlier you arrive, the better your parking spot, and the more time you’ll have to soak in the pre-race excitement.
Cooler and comfort – Bringing a taste of home
Martinsville understands that fans love their own snacks and drinks. The track allows soft-sided coolers, but with a specific requirement: they must be no larger than 14 x 14 x 14 inches. This means you can bring your favorite game-day treats and non-alcoholic beverages, but those industrial-sized coolers will need to stay at home. If you find yourself craving something more, the track’s concession stands offer a wide variety of food and drink options to keep you fueled throughout the race.
Camping – Your home away from the grandstands
Camping at Martinsville is more than just a place to sleep—it’s an integral part of the NASCAR experience. Fans looking to immerse themselves fully in the racing weekend should come prepared with digital or printed tickets and a valid photo ID. The campground isn’t just a place to park, it’s a community of racing enthusiasts sharing their passion.
The campground has specific rules designed to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment. Your tow pass must be visibly displayed on your windshield, and you’re required to park only in your assigned space. Additional vehicles must use the designated overflow parking in Lot 8. These rules might seem strict, but they’re designed to create a smooth, enjoyable experience for all fans.
The track goes above and beyond to ensure campers have everything they need. Suburban Propane provides convenient propane filling services, while United Rental Services offers water delivery and pump-out services. Water and pump trucks continuously roam the campgrounds, making it easy to get the services you need. Just a heads up—these services are cash only and available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Fire safety – Keeping the flames controlled
Martinsville takes fire safety seriously. Outdoor fireplaces are permitted, but they come with specific guidelines. They must be constructed from non-combustible materials like steel, clay, or concrete. Size matters too—fireplaces cannot exceed 36 inches in diameter or 24 inches in height. Perhaps most importantly, they must be positioned at least 15 feet away from vehicles or other combustible materials.
Campfires, bonfires, fireworks, or sky lanterns are strictly prohibited. These rules aren’t about limiting fun—they’re about keeping every fan safe while enjoying the racing weekend.
Track rules – What stays outside the fence
To ensure a smooth experience for everyone, Martinsville has a clear list of prohibited items. Aerosols are banned (with exceptions for sunscreen, sanitizer, and bug spray), and sporting equipment like frisbees, balloons, and beach balls aren’t allowed. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), also known as drones and hoverboards, must remain outside. For a detailed list, you can check out the official portal.
Accessibility and tickets
Martinsville is committed to making racing accessible to all. The track offers ADA seating in the Old Dominion Tower between Turns 1 & 2 and Bill France Towers in Turns 3 & 4, ensuring fans of all abilities can enjoy the race. Ticket purchasing is flexible, with options to buy in-person at the ticket office or online. The Will Call window, located near the Richard Petty Tower, provides additional convenience.
Weather protection – Racing’s backup plan
NASCAR understands that Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate. If a race is postponed because of weather, their Weather Protection Program allows grandstand ticket exchanges for future events at any NASCAR property (that were not used on the reschedule). This commitment shows their dedication to fans, ensuring that a little rain doesn’t wash away your racing experience.
Get ready for an adrenaline-filled weekend
Prepare, be flexible, and, most importantly, enjoy the experience. Bring a valid photo ID, arrive early, follow the track rules, and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Martinsville Speedway. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned NASCAR fan, this legendary track promises an unforgettable weekend.
If you’re not joining the event live, we’ve always got you covered with our lightning-fast coverage of the track. So, stay tuned for the updates.
The post NASCAR Martinsville Fan Guide – Tailgating, Camping, Cooler Policy, Parking & Prohibited Items at the Paperclip appeared first on EssentiallySports.
