Get ready for an unforgettable blast from the past – Wood Brothers Racing is throwing open the doors to its legendary 75th Anniversary Fan Day on October 24 in Stuart, Virginia, right before the Martinsville Speedway race weekend kicks off. This isn't just any event; it's a heartfelt tribute to a team that's been the heartbeat of NASCAR for decades, and it's designed to pull you into the thrill of racing history like never before. But here's where it gets really exciting: you'll mingle with icons who've shaped the sport, dive into interactive fun, and maybe even walk away with some exclusive memorabilia. And this is the part most people miss – it's not just for die-hard fans; it's a chance for newcomers to grasp why this team stands out in a world of high-speed competition.
Picture this: On Friday, October 24, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., the Wood Brothers Museum in Stuart, Virginia, transforms into a hub of nostalgia and excitement. As one of the key highlights of their diamond anniversary year – marking 75 years since the team's founding – this celebration promises an afternoon packed with driver meet-and-greets, lively Q&A chats, autograph signings, raffle draws, trivia challenges, free giveaways, and so much more. The museum itself will be buzzing with activity all day, showcasing vintage race cars, artifacts, and collectibles that tell the story of the Wood Brothers' incredible journey through NASCAR's premier series.
To make things even more special, nine drivers with deep ties to the Wood Brothers legacy will be on hand throughout the event. Think names like Donnie Allison, Trevor Bayne, Josh Berry, Ryan Blaney, Harrison Burton, Dale Jarrett, Paul Menard, Elliott Sadler, and Michael Waltrip – each bringing their own tales of victory and perseverance. They'll break into groups for engaging Q&A sessions, followed by autograph opportunities. Just a heads up: wristbands are a must for these driver signings, and they'll start handing them out as early as 11:30 a.m. on the day of the event. With only 100 wristbands available for the first two groups and 200 for the third, it's first-come, first-served – so arrive early to secure your spot!
But wait, there's more family flair to this gathering. Members of the Wood family themselves will host their own autograph sessions throughout the afternoon, and no wristbands are needed here. It's a rare opportunity to connect with multiple generations of the family that has steered NASCAR's oldest continuously operating team. For beginners wondering why this matters, the Wood Brothers aren't just racers; they're innovators who pioneered pit stop techniques that revolutionized the sport, all while staying loyal to Ford Motor Company since day one.
Beyond the autographs, the event is loaded with extras to keep everyone entertained. Check out the NASCAR Hall of Fame booth for interactive exhibits, or browse the team store for unique anniversary gear and collectible metal signs. Foodies will love the on-site options: Palumbo’s Food Truck dishing out tasty bites and Kona Ice providing refreshing treats to keep the energy high.
Young fans won't be left out either – the Kids Zone is a playground of joy, featuring bounce houses, a fun scavenger hunt, complimentary goodie bags, and hands-on activities at the NASCAR Hall of Fame booth. It's a gentle way to introduce the next generation to the roar of the engines, making racing feel accessible and exciting for all ages.
Parking is straightforward: Head to the grassy lot just left of the main museum entrance first. If it fills up, overflow spots are nearby, and a free shuttle will run continuously to ferry you back and forth, ensuring no one misses a moment.
Let's break down the driver autograph sessions in detail – remember, wristbands are essential, with limited numbers per group:
- Group 1 at 2:30 p.m.: Donnie Allison, Trevor Bayne, Dale Jarrett (100 wristbands)
- Group 2 at 3:30 p.m.: Harrison Burton, Michael Waltrip, Elliott Sadler (100 wristbands)
- Group 3 at 5:15 p.m.: Josh Berry, Ryan Blaney, Paul Menard (200 wristbands)
For the Wood Family autograph sessions, no wristbands required – just show up and say hello:
- Group 1 at 2:15 p.m.: Wood Family Members
- Group 2 at 4:15 p.m.: Wood Family Members
- Group 3 at 5:30 p.m.: Wood Family Members
And don't forget the ongoing activities from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., including the team museum and store (which opens at 9 a.m.), exhibits on Leonard Wood and Delano Wood, NASCAR Hall of Fame booth fun, a display of the No. 21 Ford Motorcraft show car, inflatables for bouncing around, the scavenger hunt, Palumbo’s Food Truck, and Kona Ice.
Here's the full schedule of activities for Friday, October 24 (all times Eastern):
- 9:00 a.m.: Museum Opens
- 11:30 a.m.: Wristband Distribution Begins
- 2:00 p.m.: Fan Day Officially Opens, Activities Begin
- 2:05 p.m.: Welcome & Introduction Q&A with Ford Motor Company Representatives
- 2:15 p.m.: Donnie Allison, Dale Jarrett, Trevor Bayne Q&A Session
- 2:15 p.m.: Wood Family Autograph Session
- 2:30 p.m.: Donnie Allison, Dale Jarrett, Trevor Bayne Autograph Session
- 2:45 p.m.: Trivia Round 1
- 3:15 p.m.: Harrison Burton, Michael Waltrip, Elliott Sadler Q&A Session
- 3:30 p.m.: Harrison Burton, Michael Waltrip, Elliott Sadler Autograph Session
- 3:45 p.m.: Trivia Round 2
- 4:00 p.m.: First & Second Generation Wood Family Q&A Session
- 4:15 p.m.: Wood Family Autograph Session
- 5:00 p.m.: Ryan Blaney, Josh Berry Q&A Session
- 5:15 p.m.: Trivia Round 3
- 5:15 p.m.: Ryan Blaney, Josh Berry, Paul Menard Autograph Session
- 5:30 p.m.: Wood Family Autograph Session
The Wood Brothers Museum is conveniently located at 21 Performance Drive, Stuart, VA 24171.
A bit about Wood Brothers Racing: Established in 1950 by Hall of Famer Glenn Wood in Stuart, Virginia, this team is NASCAR's longest-standing outfit, boasting 101 wins in the Cup Series, 120 pole positions, and an unbreakable bond with Ford Motor Company – they've raced only Ford vehicles from the start. Glenn's brother, Leonard Wood, was a game-changer, inventing the pit stop methods that are standard today. With a history steeped in creativity and tradition, Wood Brothers Racing keeps pushing forward in NASCAR's top tier, currently with driver Josh Berry behind the wheel.
Source: Wood Brothers Racing
Now, here's where it gets controversial – some fans argue that events like this keep the sport's traditions alive in an era of flashy tech and big-money sponsorships, while others say NASCAR should focus more on modernizing to attract younger crowds. Is celebrating a 75-year legacy the key to racing's future, or does it risk holding the sport back? What do you think – does honoring pioneers like the Wood Brothers inspire innovation, or should teams prioritize cutting-edge changes? Share your thoughts in the comments; I'd love to hear if you agree, disagree, or have a fresh take on how racing evolves!
