SOUTH AMHERST, Ohio — The engines are roaring to life one final time 2026. This Friday through Sunday, October 23–25, Lorain Raceway Park plays host to its marquee event of the year: the Halloween Festival of Speed Cavalcade.
As the checkered flag prepares to wave on an abbreviated, nostalgic 2026 comeback season, racers, families, and racing historians are gathering at “The County” for a weekend packed with high-speed action, deep-rooted traditions, and a lingering question about what’s next for the historic track.
A Blockbuster Weekend of 10 Racing Divisions
Fans heading out to the 3/8-mile asphalt oval are in for a marathon of rubber-burning entertainment. The Cavalcade features a massive 10 distinct racing divisions, promising non-stop wheel-to-wheel action across multiple classes:
- Headliners & Open-Wheel Thrills: Late Models, Modifieds, and the fan-favorite Street Stocks running the prestigious Mike Florjancic Memorial.
- High-Octane Support & Series: The thunderous Great Lakes Truck Tour, Legends, Outlaw Compacts, Compacts, and the Ace Racing League.
- Future Stars: Saturday’s action also spotlights Mini Wedges and Juicebox Karts, giving the youngest generation of racers a chance to shine on the big stage.
Honoring the Legends: Hall of Fame Induction
Beyond the intense track battles, Saturday, October 24th will carry profound emotional weight as Lorain Raceway Park hosts the Lorain County Motorsports Hall of Fame Class of 2026 Induction Ceremony.
Taking place pre-race, the ceremony honors the drivers, mechanics, builders, and officials who built the rich legacy of local motorsports. With a legendary class of inductees, fans are encouraged to arrive early to witness the heartfelt tributes before the green flag drops.
Closing Out the Comeback Season
Rather than a final farewell, this weekend serves as a triumphant celebration of racing resilience! Thanks to the incredible dedication of the Maggio and Whittenberger families, 2026 brought a triumphant comeback that reignited the passion of Northeast Ohio short-track fans. In particular, the Whittenberger family—through Hook & Haul Towing and Recovery—has brought Lorain Raceway Park wonderfully back to life. Their generous sponsorship and fun, energetic Facebook videos encouraging fans to pack the stands have been an absolute breath of fresh air for the track, breathing new life into the local racing community.
Far from writing a final chapter, this weekend’s blockbuster Cavalcade sets the stage for exciting possibilities ahead.
Weekend Schedule & Visitor Info
- Thursday, Oct 22: Open practice, hauler, and camper parking (4:00 PM to dark; pit pass $10).
- Friday, Oct 23: Practice and qualifying day. General admission is FREE.
- Saturday, Oct 24: Gates open at 1:00 PM; Hall of Fame inductions pre-race; Racing starts at 6:00 PM (General admission $20).
- Sunday, Oct 25: Gates open at 12:00 PM; Main events start at 2:00 PM (General admission $20).
Kids 10 and under are free for general admission. Full weekend camping spots are available for $50.
Pack your jackets, grab your crew, and head out to Lorain Raceway Park this weekend to help send off “The Fastest Party in Lorain County” in style!
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