NASCAR Deploys 150 Cars and Simulators to Birmingham City Walk

NASCAR is returning to Birmingham for the fourth year of its community block party. The organization hosts the event during the Magic City Classic weekend, a period that also features local college football games.

Approximately 150 vehicles will be on display at City Walk BHAM on Friday, October 30. The collection includes cars belonging to celebrities and social media influencers, as well as entries from other states. The event runs from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and is free to the public.

Brandon Thompson, NASCAR’s Vice President of Growth, Engagement, and Inclusion, stated that the gathering serves as a central part of the company's outreach. He said the event supports Historically Black Colleges and Universities, specifically Alabama A&M and Alabama State, which participate in the Magic City Classic.

Thompson noted that the block party follows a recent race weekend at Talladega Superspeedway. He described the Birmingham connection as a key part of the organization's strategy to build relationships in the local market.

"We had about 1,500 people come out last year, a ton of food trucks, so it was a great opportunity," Thompson said. "It’s really just a great time to bring out the kids, celebrate the classic weekend, and come out and see what NASCAR’s all about."

In addition to the static car display, attendees can access racing simulators and a designated area for children. Food trucks and local vendors, including Alicia’s Coffee, are also present. Thompson said the event allows the organization to support HBCU initiatives across the region.

"We know how much Birmingham means to Talladega as well," Thompson said. "It’s a great time for us to come back with one of the city’s largest events, to be able to come and support both HBCUs here and support a lot of the things that we have going on just from an HBCU initiative across the board."