Events

There's Always Something To do in The Brainerd Lakes Area

No matter when you decide to visit, you’ll find events happening. We host signature events like the Pequot Lakes Stars & Stripes Days in July. Have you been to the best St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Minnesota?! You’ll find the parade in Crosslake. How about kickin’ your boots up at Lakes Jam—the Lakes Area’s biggest country and rock fest. Other local businesses and communities host festivals, live music, and even fireworks. Make these popular events a family tradition.

Wide Open Wednesdays

Wednesday, July 1, 2026 (4:00 PM - 9:00 PM) (CDT)

Description

Wide Open Wednesdays – 2026 Season Experience the Thrill of Drag Racing, Drifting, and Autocross! 

Join us at Brainerd International Raceway (BIR) for the Wide Open Wednesdays where street-legal cars, trucks, and motorcycles hit the track for high-energy racing action! The 2026 season kicks off on Wednesday, May 6th, with 9 scheduled events throughout the season. 

Event Details: 

Dates: First event – May 6th, 2026 

Gates Open: 4:00 PM 

Racing Starts: 5:00 PM (Ends at dusk) 

Location: Brainerd International Raceway Entry Fee: $35 – Racer Entry $10 – Spectator Ticket (Get your tickets at the gate!) This event is open to anyone with a street-legal vehicle. Test your skills using the Christmas tree, burn-out box, and scoreboard while an announcer calls all the action!  Street Legal Racing Rules: Vehicles must be OEM production-type automobiles, motorcycles, or trucks. Vehicles must be street-driven and display valid license plates. Drivers must carry state-issued proof of registration and valid insurance. All vehicles must meet state highway safety requirements and retain OEM safety features. Autocross/Drift Rules: Vehicles must pass tech inspection. Full length pants and t-shirt required. SA2015+ helmets required.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Drag strip and racer safety
  • Vehicle safety requirements
  • Understanding the Christmas Tree and starting line
  • Basic timing system explanation
  • Return road procedures
  • How to read your time slip

After a 30-minute classroom session, participants will practice reacting to the live Christmas Tree on foot. Then, they’ll go through tech inspection first and be the first racers on the track!

Bonus: Participants receive a free Trophy Class tech card for the BIR Bracket Racing Series!

(Daily admission fee not included – must be purchased online or at the gate.)

Brainerd International Raceway (BIR)
5523 Birchdale Road
Brainerd, MN 56401 United States
Event Contact
Brainerd International Raceway (BIR)
(218) 824-7223
Send Email
Wednesday, July 1, 2026 (4:00 PM - 9:00 PM) (CDT)

Class Dates:

  • May 6th

  • May 20th

  • July 1st

  • September 2nd

Class Details:
  • Start Time: 3:00 PM

  • Pre-registration required

  • Cost: $50 (Includes Racer Entry Fee)

Categories
Racing
Community Events
Area Events
Hands-on Event
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