Imagine yourself at the heart of an electrifying festival, where the roar of engines and the cheer of the crowd blend into a symphony of adrenaline and excitement. This is the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, happening from April 19-21, 2024, transforming the streets of Downtown Long Beach into a racing paradise. It’s your ticket to an unforgettable weekend where the city comes alive with the spectacle of speed, skill, and spirit.

It’s a mix of the world’s best in IndyCar, IMSA sports cars, drift challenges, and SUPER trucks all competing on an iconic 11-turn, 1.97-mile street circuit that skirts the edge of the Pacific. The Pike Outlets, Aquarium of the Pacific, and Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center serve as your backdrop to an event heralded as the pinnacle of street racing. But it’s more than just a race; it’s a festival celebrating the very essence of Long Beach’s vibrant culture. And you know what’s cool? It draws like 190,000 fans, so you know it’s going to be epic.

LBC Grand Prix Lifestyle Expo

The Lifestyle Expo at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is like stepping into a giant playground for grown-ups (and kids, too!). Imagine wandering through an area as big as five football fields, packed with the coolest, latest stuff from the worlds of cars, tech, and lifestyle. It’s like a sneak peek into the future, but you can actually touch and feel everything.

Now, let’s talk about the Green Power Prix-View within the expo. This place is a dream for anyone who’s into saving the planet while staying on the cutting edge of technology. Picture this: electric cars that look so sleek, you’d want to drive them off the display, and home gadgets that make you feel like you’re living in a sci-fi movie—all geared towards making the world a little greener.

And for the racing fans, it’s not just about watching those speed machines tear up the track. The NTT INDYCAR SERIES Fan Experience brings you face-to-face with the stars behind the wheels. Autograph sessions? Check. It’s your chance to meet your racing idols, get their autographs, and maybe even a selfie or two to make your friends green with envy.

But what about the kiddos, you ask? The Family Fun Zone has got it all—from rock climbing for the adventurous little ones to racing simulators for those who want to feel like they’re part of the Grand Prix action. And the cutest part? Kids aged 3-to-6 can hop into mini race cars and zoom around, probably setting off their racing careers early!

Meet the Grand Prix Drivers

Oh, diving into the fan experience at the Grand Prix, especially when it comes to meeting the drivers, is like getting a backstage pass to the coolest gig in town. You’re there, heart racing, as you queue up for an autograph session. And it’s not just any old signing event; you’re about to meet the very heroes who, just moments ago, were tearing up the track at breakneck speeds.

Imagine shaking hands with someone who, to you, is larger than life. You’re standing there, poster or racing cap in hand, ready to be signed. The drivers are incredibly approachable, sharing smiles, shaking hands, and genuinely engaging with fans. It’s this raw, unfiltered moment where the adrenaline from the track spills over into the fan experience.

And let’s not forget the selfies and photos – these are the golden tickets. Snapping a photo with your favorite driver, that moment frozen in time, becomes a prized possession. It’s more than just a picture; it’s a story, a memory of the day you met your racing idol face-to-face.

The beauty of these autograph sessions and photo ops at the Grand Prix is how they break down the barriers between the titans of the track and the fans in the stands. It’s a reminder that, beneath the helmets and racing suits, drivers are real people who appreciate the support and love from their fans.

Between the races, you can meet the drivers, snag some autographs, and just soak up the festival atmosphere. They’ve got everything planned out, from a chill Family Fun Zone to live music you can jam to. It’s like they’ve thought of everything to keep us entertained.

The Family Fun Zone

The Family Fun Zone at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach? Oh, it’s a blast, like a mini amusement park that pops up right in the heart of the racing world. Think of it as the kiddie version of the Grand Prix, where the little ones get their own taste of the racing thrill—minus the actual speeding cars, of course!

This place is a wonderland for kids and, honestly, for anyone who’s a kid at heart. Imagine walking into the Long Beach Arena section of the Lifestyle Expo, and it’s like stepping into a world crafted just for fun. There are rock climbing walls that challenge the brave climbers among us, games that test your skills and luck, and video games for those digital warriors who prefer virtual challenges.

But the crown jewel of the Family Fun Zone? It’s got to be the racing simulators. These aren’t your average arcade games; they’re like stepping into the cockpit of a real race car, minus the risk. Kids (and, let’s be real, adults too) can feel what it’s like to zoom around a track, steering and speeding through virtual corners.

And for the tiny tots, those aged 3-to-6, there’s something extra special. They get to hop into mini race cars and take them for a spin. It’s downright adorable and, for many, a first little step into a lifelong love of cars and racing. Plus, can you imagine the photo ops? Picture your little one, helmet on, beaming with pride in their mini car. It’s the kind of memory that’s going to stick with you long after the race weekend is over.

The Concert Lineup

As the sun sets, the vibe shifts with live music setting the stage for evenings filled with melody and dance. From rock to pop, the concert lineup is carefully curated to offer something for every musical taste, ensuring the party continues long after the day’s races have concluded.

For the 2024 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, the concert lineup is set to electrify the crowd with a mix of genres that cater to a wide array of musical tastes. On Friday night, get ready to dance under the stars as Ape Drums, a DJ known for his high-energy sets blending Caribbean-inspired music genres like reggae and dancehall, takes the stage. It’s a perfect kickoff to the weekend’s festivities, promising a vibrant dance party atmosphere.

The excitement continues into Saturday night with the AllStar Jam featuring country music icons Gretchen Wilson, Eddie Montgomery, David Lee Murphy, and SIXWIRE. These artists are set to perform hit after hit, creating a memorable evening of sing-alongs and country vibes right in the heart of Long Beach.

Additionally, the iconic rock supergroup Kings of Chaos is slated to headline the concert on Saturday, April 15th. This band, known for its rotating lineup of legendary rock musicians, promises an electrifying performance that rock fans won’t want to miss.

Each concert is free to race ticket holders for the respective days, offering not just a full day of thrilling races but also evenings packed with outstanding musical performances. Space at the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center Terrace Plaza, where the concerts are held, is limited and will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis, so make sure to plan accordingly to enjoy these fantastic musical experiences.

Long Beach Grand Prix Tickets

There’s a variety of ticket options to suit whatever your weekend plans are. If you’re all in for the full experience, weekend reserved seating starts at $185 for adults, with lower-priced options available for junior attendees. If you’re planning to drop by just for the day, Sunday admission with a reserved seat begins at $114 for adults. And for those looking to just soak in the atmosphere without a specific seat, general admission options are also available, with a 3-day general admission pass at $120. Plus, there’s a cool 10% discount for U.S. Armed Forces veterans and active military on admission tickets!

The schedule is packed with non-stop action. Kicking off with Thunder Thursday at The Pike Outlets, the weekend is filled with practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and the races themselves, including the IMSA SportsCar Grand Prix and the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. Not to mention, there are autograph sessions, the Lifestyle Expo, and concerts to keep the vibes high all weekend long.

For any queries or more details on tickets and scheduling, reaching out to [email protected] or calling (888) 827-7333 should get you sorted. Whether you’re a die-hard motorsport fan or just looking for a fun-filled weekend, this event promises excitement for everyone.

Long Beach Grand Prix Schedule

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Long Beach Motorsports Walk of Fame Ceremony
Thunder Thursday at The Pike Outlets

Friday, April 19, 2024

Gates open
Practice and qualifying sessions for GT America, IMSA, and Historic Indy Car
NTT INDYCAR SERIES Practice #1
IMSA Qualifying
NTT INDYCAR SERIES All-Driver Autograph Session
Super Drift Challenge #1
Fiesta Friday Concert featuring Ape Drums

Saturday, April 20, 2024

Gates open
NTT INDYCAR SERIES Practice #2
IMSA WeatherTech Autograph Session
Historic Indy Car Challenge Race #1
NTT INDYCAR SERIES Qualifying & Firestone Fast 6
IMSA SportsCar Grand Prix
Stadium SUPER Trucks Race #1
GT America Race #1
Super Drift Challenge #2
All Star Jam Concert with Gretchen Wilson, Eddie Montgomery, David Lee Murphy, and SIXWIRE

Sunday, April 21, 2024

Gates open
NTT INDYCAR SERIES Warm-Up
Historic Indy Car Challenge Race #2
Acura Type S/NSX Hot Laps
Mothers Exotic Car Parade
NTT INDYCAR SERIES Pre-Race activities
Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach (NTT INDYCAR SERIES race)
Stadium SUPER Trucks Race #2
GT America Race #2

Parking at the LBC Grand Prix

Reserved Parking

Reservation Needed: Parking must be reserved through the Acura Grand Prix Ticket office and paid for in advance.
Parking Pass Required: A special parking pass is mandatory for all Reserved Parking lots.
Limited Availability: Spaces are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Operating Hours: Reserved Parking lots are open from 7:00 a.m. until the posted closing times daily.
Restrictions: No tailgating or overnight camping. Vehicles without proper hang-tags or those parked improperly are subject to towing at the owner’s expense.

Pike Parking (3 Days)

Location: Near Turn 5 of the racetrack, adjacent to Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Turn One Club, and Grandstands 5, 6, 7, 36, and 40. Entry is via Chestnut Ave. at Ocean Blvd.
Duration: Available on a 3-day basis.

Shoreline Parking (3 Days or Single-Day)

Location: West of the race circuit, accessible off the 710 freeway at Broadway, then right on Magnolia St., right on Ocean Blvd., and left on Golden Shore Ave. It’s near Grandstands 5, 6, 7, 36, and 40.

Duration: Available for either 3 days or a single day.

Downtown Parking

Additional Options: Information on parking in city-owned lots in Downtown Long Beach is available but not detailed here. The Long Beach Grand Prix website has a circuit map with the details of the parking lots as well.

Whether you’re there for the heart-racing thrill of motorsport, the immersive fan experiences like meeting the drivers and snapping some memorable photos, the family-friendly atmosphere of the Fun Zone, or the eclectic mix of concerts that light up the evenings, this event has something for everyone.

From the kick-off with Thunder Thursday to the climactic IndyCar race on Sunday, the schedule is jam-packed with non-stop action. Tickets offer a range of options, whether you want to be right in the thick of it with reserved seating or prefer the flexibility of general admission. And with discounts available for U.S. Armed Forces veterans and active military, it’s accessible for everyone to join in the excitement.

The Lifestyle Expo, a highlight for many, broadens the appeal of the weekend beyond just racing fans, offering insights into the latest in automotive, technology, and sustainability. It’s a reminder that the Grand Prix is more than just a series of races; it’s a celebration of community, innovation, and the sheer joy of speed.

So, mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and get ready for an exhilarating weekend at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. It’s a unique blend of high-speed thrills, family fun, and community spirit that you definitely won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a die-hard racing enthusiast or just looking for a fun weekend out with friends and family, the Grand Prix promises to deliver excitement, entertainment, and memories that will last a lifetime.