A celebration of speed and community
The NASCAR Hauler Parade rolled through the streets of Speedway, Indiana, kicking off the Brickyard 400 weekend with a spectacle that blended pageantry and tradition. More than 500 haulers and their massive trucks lined the route, drawing tens of thousands of onlookers who gathered to watch the colorful convoy and capture photos of the massive rigs.
Longtime fan Larry Brinker, who has attended the Indianapolis 500 since the 1970s, described the parade as a ritual that marks the start of the racing season for him. The event also gave Alex Anderson a chance to relive his own childhood memories, as he now brings his four‑year‑old daughter to share the tradition with the next generation.
IMS president Doug Boles emphasized the economic significance of the weekend, noting that the combined impact of the parade, practice sessions and the Cup Series race is expected to generate roughly $200 million for the state. Local businesses, from Speedway City Garage to retail anchors such as Bass Pro Shop, reported a noticeable surge in foot traffic, underscoring the event’s role as a catalyst for commerce on Main Street.
The on‑track action will culminate on Sunday when the green flag drops at 2:20 p.m., launching the Brickyard 400 race that will see more than 70,000 fans fill the grandstands. Practices and qualifying races throughout the weekend provide additional opportunities for spectators to engage with the sport before the main event.