📅 When
December 3, 2026 – December 6, 2026
📍 Where
7500 Mitchell Rd, Pensacola, FL 32504
📞 Contact
About this event
Every December, the motorsports world turns its eyes to Pensacola as Five Flags Speedway hosts the Snowball Derby — the most prestigious short-track race in America. Now in its 58th year, this 300-lap Super Late Model showdown draws elite drivers from all over the United States and Canada to compete on the speedway's challenging half-mile paved oval.
Race week is a four-day spectacle of qualifying rounds, heat races, and practice sessions before the main event. For fans of high-speed action and close-quarters racing, there's nothing quite like watching the field of purpose-built stock cars fight for every inch under the blazing track lights. The atmosphere in the grandstands is electric, with passionate racing fans creating a festival-like energy throughout the weekend.
Whether you're a hardcore motorsport devotee or just looking for an adrenaline-fueled night out, the Snowball Derby delivers non-stop excitement. Pensacola is an easy day trip from the Destin and Fort Walton Beach area, and a night at the speedway makes for one of the most unique vacation memories on the Emerald Coast.
Best for: Racing enthusiasts, couples, and families with older kids who love motorsport
What to expect: Four days of qualifying, heat races, and the 300-lap main event; craft beer and food vendors; a legendary atmosphere in the grandstands
Planning tip: Book tickets in advance at 5flagsspeedway.com — the main event day sells out. Arrive early to watch practice and qualifying rounds on Thursday and Friday.
Cost: Daily tickets typically $15–$45; multi-day passes available; children under 12 often free
