The NASCAR All-Star Race returns for a second year to the North Wilkesboro Speedway this weekend.
Last year’s event provided an economic jolt for the region. The state reinvested in the long-dormant North Wilkesboro Speedway back in 2021. Last year’s All-Star race marked its return to the big time, and state officials say the event drew 39,000 fans.
A study released this month by the North Carolina Department of Commerce found that the race boosted the state economy by more than $42 million and created more than 600 jobs.
Locally, the event led to over $20 million in construction and infrastructure investments in Wilkes County.
Among this year’s events is the unveiling of a historical marker noting the connection between bootlegging and racing. The signage will let visitors know that the speedway is part of the state’s Moonshine and Motorsports Trail.
Not all of the history was well-known. In March, track officials announced that repair work had unearthed what appears to be the remains of a moonshine cave underneath the grandstands.