Going to your first drag race? There are some things you should know. Check out my Dos and Don’ts of Attending a Drag Race!
8 Things to Consider When Attending a Drag Race
Over the weekend for my husband’s birthday I attended my first drag car races. I learned a lot about the dos and don’ts of attending a drag race. In this post, I’m sharing my top lessons. From what to wear to where to sit, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know to make your day at the races enjoyable and safe. So buckle up, grab your earplugs, and let’s dive into the world of drag racing!
What is a drag race?
A drag race is a type of motorsport event that involves two drivers competing against each other in a straight-line acceleration contest. The goal is to see who can reach the finish line first, with the winner being determined by timing and speed. Drag races typically take place on a designated track or strip, which is usually a quarter-mile long.
Attending a drag race can be an exciting experience for spectators, but it’s important to follow some dos and don’ts to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time. For example, one “do” is to arrive early so you have plenty of time to find parking and get settled in before the races begin. Another important “do” is to bring ear protection, as drag racing engines can be incredibly loud.
On the flip side, there are also some don’ts when attending a drag race.
Do: Bring Earplugs!
When attending a drag race, one of the most important things to bring with you is earplugs. Drag races are notoriously loud and can reach decibel levels that can cause permanent damage to your hearing. By bringing earplugs, you can protect your hearing and still enjoy all the excitement and adrenaline of the race.
Not only do earplugs protect your hearing, but they also allow you to focus on the race itself without distraction. The noise level at drag races can be overwhelming, making it difficult to concentrate on anything else. With earplugs in place, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the experience without being distracted by the deafening roar of engines.
We messed up here and forgot ours. Luckily, they were only $1 a pack at the race we attended!
Don’t: Forget to Check the Weather
One of the most important things to remember when attending a drag race is to check the weather beforehand. While it may seem like an obvious task, many people forget to do so and end up getting caught in unpleasant weather conditions. It’s essential to know what type of weather you’ll be facing so that you can dress appropriately for the occasion.
If it’s going to be hot outside, be sure to wear light clothing and bring plenty of water with you. On the other hand, if it’s going to be cold or rainy, make sure you have appropriate outerwear such as jackets or raincoats. You don’t want weather conditions ruining your day at the drag race.
Do: Dress for the occasion
When attending a drag race, it is important to dress for the occasion. This means putting together an outfit that is both comfortable and stylish. Drag racing events are often held outdoors, so it’s important to dress appropriately for the weather conditions. For example, if it’s going to be hot and sunny outside, you’ll want to wear lightweight clothing that will keep you cool.
In addition to dressing for the weather, it’s also important to think about the type of event you’re attending. If you’re going to a high-profile race with lots of VIPs in attendance, then you’ll want to dress up a bit more than if you were just going to a casual race with friends. A good rule of thumb is to always err on the side of being slightly overdressed rather than underdressed.
Overall, your goal should be to put together an outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable while still fitting in with the overall vibe of the event. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that you make a great impression at any drag race event!
Don’t: Bring prohibited items
One of the most important things to remember when attending a drag race is to avoid bringing prohibited items. These can vary depending on the specific event, but common examples include outside food and drinks, weapons, drugs, and alcohol. Bringing any of these items can result in removal from the event or even legal consequences.
It’s also important to note that some events may have specific rules regarding cameras or recording devices. Be sure to check with event organizers before bringing any equipment with you. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to double-check the event’s website or social media pages for any updates on prohibited items.
Bringing prohibited items not only puts yourself at risk but can also disrupt the entire event for others in attendance. Play it safe and leave these items at home so everyone can enjoy the race without interruptions or safety concerns.
Do: Follow safety guidelines
When attending a drag race, it is crucial to follow safety guidelines. These guidelines are put in place to keep both the spectators and racers safe. First, always stand behind the designated spectator area. This area is usually fenced off, and it is important to stay within its boundaries at all times. Secondly, wear ear protection such as earplugs or noise-canceling headphones. Drag races can be extremely loud, and prolonged exposure to these high decibels can cause hearing damage.
Third, stay alert and watch out for flying debris or spills on the ground that may cause you to slip or trip. It is also essential not to run around the track during a race or cross the track while it’s in use; these actions could result in severe injury or even death. Lastly, refrain from consuming alcohol or drugs before attending a drag race event as they impair judgment and can lead to risky behavior.
By following these safety guidelines when attending a drag race event, you’ll ensure your own safety and that of those around you while enjoying an exhilarating display of speed and power. Remember that safety should always come first!
Don’t: Disrespect the performers or other attendees
When attending a drag race, it is important to remember that the performers are putting themselves out there and giving it their all. Disrespecting them in any way is not only rude but also takes away from the experience for everyone else in attendance. This includes heckling, booing, or making derogatory comments towards the performers. It’s okay to have an opinion on who should win or what you think of their performance, but keep those thoughts to yourself.
In addition to respecting the performers, it’s also important to be considerate of other attendees. Drag races typically attract a diverse crowd with people from all walks of life. Making fun of someone’s appearance or mocking their gender identity is unacceptable and can make others feel uncomfortable and unwelcome. Remember that everyone is there to have a good time and enjoy the show.
Overall, showing respect for both the performers and other attendees will help create a positive atmosphere at drag races. It will allow everyone to fully enjoy the show without fear of being ridiculed or judged by others in attendance. So sit back, relax, and let yourself be entertained by some fabulous queens!
Do: Cheer on your favorite racers
Attending a drag race is not just about watching the cars go down the track; it’s also about supporting your favorite racers. The energy and excitement of cheering on your chosen racer can be contagious, creating a memorable experience for both you and those around you. So, don’t hold back – cheer loudly and proudly.
When cheering on your favorite racers, it’s essential to be respectful towards other attendees. Make sure you’re not blocking anyone’s view or impeding their ability to enjoy the event. Additionally, avoid using foul language or derogatory remarks towards other racers or attendees.
Cheering on your favorite racer can also mean showing support through more than just vocal encouragement. Consider bringing signs or banners with their name or car number displayed prominently. You could even wear clothing that represents their team colors or logos, making it clear where your loyalty lies. Remember that attending a drag race is as much about being part of a community as it is about watching thrilling races, so show support for all those involved in this exciting sport!
Don’t: Miss Your Chance to See a Drag Race
If you’re a fan of drag racing, then you don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to see one of these events live. Not only is it an exciting experience, but it’s also a chance to immerse yourself in the culture and community that surrounds this unique sport.
So where can you find drag races? One option is to check your local racetrack or speedway for upcoming events. Many tracks hold regular drag racing competitions throughout the year, so be sure to keep an eye on their schedules.
Another option is to look for specialized drag racing events and festivals in your area. These can range from small car club gatherings to large-scale festivals featuring some of the biggest names in the sport. By doing some research online or asking around in your local community, you’ll likely be able to find several options for attending a drag race near you.
