The 2026 Dollar Tree 301 is New England’s only NASCAR Cup Series race of the year and one of the final opportunities for drivers to lock in a playoff spot. Held at New Hampshire Motor Speedway (NHMS) — better known as “The Magic Mile” — this flat 1.058-mile oval delivers close, strategic racing that rewards precision over pure power.
Here’s your complete guide to the race, weekend schedule, tickets, camping, parking, and everything else you need to know.
Race Overview
- Date: Sunday, August 23, 2026
- Green Flag: 3:00 p.m. ET
- Location: New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, New Hampshire
- Distance: 301 laps / 318.458 miles
- Stages: 70 / 185 / 301
- Series: NASCAR Cup Series (Race 25 of 36)
- Track Nickname: The Magic Mile
Dollar Tree became the title sponsor in May 2026, replacing Mobil 1. The race marks the penultimate event of the regular season and carries major playoff implications.
Full NASCAR Weekend at NHMS (Aug. 21–23)
The Dollar Tree 301 anchors a stacked three-day schedule:
- Friday, Aug. 21: SIG SAUER Academy Dirt Duels, Truck Series practice & qualifying, Modified practice & qualifying, live music, and fireworks.
- Saturday, Aug. 22 (Doubleheader Saturday): Cup Series practice and qualifying, Team EJP 175 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race (1:30 p.m.), and Mohegan Sun 100 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race (4:30 p.m.). Kids 12 & under are free on Saturday.
- Sunday, Aug. 23: Dollar Tree 301 NASCAR Cup Series race (3:00 p.m.).
Gates open early each day, with Fan Zone activities, autograph sessions, concerts, and family entertainment throughout the weekend.
How to Buy Dollar Tree 301 Tickets
Tickets are available now through NHMS.com and Ticketmaster. New Hampshire Motor Speedway uses flex pricing, so rates can change based on demand.
Key ticket deals and options:
- Kids 12 & under: Just $10 on Sunday (free on Saturday).
- Military, first responders, teachers, and other eligible groups can access special pricing via GOVX.
- Purchase at least two Sunday tickets and receive a free $10 Dollar Tree gift card (limited quantities, lower Concord Grandstand seats).
- Weekend packages (Saturday + Sunday) are available and often offer better value.
- Premium options include suites, track passes, and VIP experiences.
- Free general parking is included with all tickets.
Tickets remain available across grandstand sections, with lower-priced options still listed in the $75–$100+ range (all-in) depending on location and demand. Prices rise as race day approaches, so buying early is recommended.
Parking, Camping & Track Policies
- Parking: Free general parking is available. Enter via the South Entrance (Friday/Saturday) or North/South on Sunday depending on direction of travel. Premium reserved parking is also offered.
- Camping: On-site camping is a major part of the NHMS experience. Lots open as early as Saturday, Aug. 15. Most sites are dry camping (self-contained RVs required). Tent camping is limited to the S7 lot during Cup week. Quiet hours and family-friendly zones are enforced in many areas.
- Cashless facility: Credit and debit cards only.
- What to bring: Soft-sided coolers are allowed, ear protection is strongly recommended, and sunscreen is essential in the open grandstands.
- Mobile tickets are required — download them in advance.
Watching the Race
- TV: USA Network (Leigh Diffey, Jeff Burton, Steve Letarte)
- Radio: PRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio
Two-time Cup Series winner Steve Park has been named the honorary pace car driver for the event.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
The Magic Mile is one of the flattest tracks on the Cup schedule, producing intense side-by-side racing and strategy. Arrive early for Fan Zone activities, consider a weekend package if you want the full experience, and book camping ASAP if you plan to stay on-site — popular lots sell out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the 2026 Dollar Tree 301? Sunday, August 23, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. ET at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon, NH.
How long is the race? 301 laps on the 1.058-mile oval (318.458 miles), with stage breaks at laps 70 and 185.
Are kids free? Kids 12 & under are free on Doubleheader Saturday and just $10 on Sunday for the Cup race.
Is there free parking? Yes. General parking is free for the entire NASCAR weekend.
Can I bring a cooler? Yes — soft-sided coolers are permitted (subject to search).
Is the track cashless? Yes. NHMS is a cashless facility.
Where can I buy tickets? Official tickets are available at NHMS.com and Ticketmaster. Resale options also appear on major secondary platforms.
Is camping available? Yes. On-site camping (mostly dry/self-contained) is popular. Reserve early as demand is high.
What other races are happening that weekend? The Team EJP 175 Truck Series race and Mohegan Sun 100 Modified Tour race take place on Saturday.
Will the race be on TV? Yes — live on USA Network.
The 2026 Dollar Tree 301 delivers pure short-track intensity at one of NASCAR’s most unique venues. Whether you’re a longtime fan of The Magic Mile or visiting New England for the first time, this weekend offers racing, camping, live entertainment, and family-friendly value.
Ready to lock in your seats? Check current ticket inventory and packages now before the best options sell out.
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