Cook Out Southern 500

Welcome to the Cook Out Southern 500, one of NASCAR's most storied and prestigious events, held at the legendary Darlington Raceway in South Carolina. Known as 'The Lady in Black,' Darlington is NASCAR's oldest superspeedway and a track that demands respect, skill, and nerves of steel. On September 6, 2026, the best drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series will battle under the lights in a Labor Day Weekend tradition that has defined greatness for generations of racing fans. Darlington Raceway's unique egg-shaped oval creates an unmatched racing challenge, forcing drivers to hug the treacherous outside wall and earn the infamous 'Darlington Stripe' as a badge of honor. The atmosphere is electric — from the thunderous roar of engines echoing through the grandstands to the smell of burning rubber and the sight of cars trading paint at 200 miles per hour. This is raw, authentic NASCAR racing at its absolute finest, steeped in decades of history and Southern tradition. The Cook Out Southern 500 is more than just a race — it's a pilgrimage for true motorsports fans. Retro throwback paint schemes, passionate crowds, and the unpredictable nature of Darlington's punishing surface combine to deliver a race-day experience unlike any other on the NASCAR calendar. Whether you're a lifelong fan or experiencing your first Cup Series race, this is a bucket-list motorsports event you will never forget.