Y’all know I’ll travel for good content, but this one had me feeling like a true insider. I got the invite from Suburban Propane to experience race day at EchoPark Speedway the VIP way, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. From pit road access to a suite dinner to watching the green flag drop feet away from the action, this was easily one of my favorite brand experiences this year. Here’s the full rundown plus everything you need to pack if you ever land an invite like this one.
The VIP Race Day Timeline
Race day started at 3:30 p.m. with VIP parking (pre-arranged, no circling the lot like everybody else) and rolled straight into a packed evening:
- 3:45 p.m. Suburban Propane Fan Zone activation
- 4:15 p.m. Exploring the NASCAR Fan Zone
- 4:45 p.m. Exclusive Pit Road and Garage Tour right after qualifying
- 5:30 p.m. Check-in at the Influencer Suite
- 5:45 p.m. Dinner in the suite
- 6:15 p.m. Transportation to the infield for Driver Introductions
- 7:00 p.m. Watching the start of the race from Pit Road
- 7:15 p.m. Back to the suite to enjoy the rest of the race
Standing on pit road for the start of a NASCAR race hits different. The noise, the vibration, the smell of rubber and fuel, no camera fully captures it but I sure tried.
What Made This Experience Different
This wasn’t a “watch from the stands” kind of invite. Getting access to the garage and pit road put me in spaces usually reserved for teams and partners, which meant content nobody else at that race was capturing. If you’re a creator getting looped into an experience like this, that access is the whole point, so plan your content around it.
My NASCAR VIP Race Day Checklist
If you ever get the call to do a race day like this, here’s exactly what I packed and what I wish I’d packed more of.
Content Creation Gear
- Primary camera, fully charged (I shot most of this on my iPhone)
- DJI Osmo Pocket 3 for quick handheld b-roll on pit road
- DJI Mic Mini for clean audio during interviews and voiceovers
- Backup batteries, more than you think you need
- Extra memory cards
- Portable charger/power bank for your phone
- Small crossbody or fanny pack to keep hands free for filming
Comfort and Practical Must-Haves
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes, you’ll be walking and standing a lot
- Earplugs or noise-reducing earbuds, race cars are loud
- Sunglasses
- Hat or visor for sun coverage during the earlier activations
- Sunscreen, reapply before Fan Zone time
- Light layer or jacket for once the sun goes down
- Portable handheld fan, Georgia heat does not play
- Refillable water bottle
- Snacks or light protein bar in case dinner timing runs behind
- Hand sanitizer or wipes
Logistics and Paperwork
- Confirmation email or digital VIP parking pass saved and screenshotted
- Photo ID
Final Lap Thoughts
Huge thanks to Suburban Propane and the EchoPark Speedway team for the hospitality. This is officially one of my favorite Atlanta brand experiences to date, and I’m already looking forward to the next race.
Until next time, Hungry Homegirl 🧡
