Ford/Bristol Motor Speedway's Transporter Parade a treat for fans

Fans may not know the names of these drivers, but they certainly recognize the colorful vehicles they pilot through Bristol during the wildly popular Ford/Bristol Motor Speedway Transporter Parade.

One of a number of entertaining and fun-filled special events that takes place at BMS during August race week, the Transporter Parade, which is Thursday evening, Aug. 19, is truly a fan favorite.

Thousands of fans in the area for the four NASCAR races at BMS that week come out early, staking their claim on their chosen viewing position along the 10-mile route from Bristol Mall to "The World’s Fastest Half-Mile."

Many of the haulers also will carry a child from either the Make A Wish Foundation or the Children’s Miracle Network.

The parade starts at 9 p.m. at the Bristol Mall, following completion of downtown Bristol’s Food City Race Night. More than 60 haulers then will make their way from the mall down Volunteer Parkway to BMS

The transporter leading the way will be the one belonging to the leader of the NASCAR Sprint Cup point standings heading into the IRWIN Tools Night Race, currently Kevin Harvick. To add to the parade’s atmosphere, fireworks will light up the night from four different points along the route.

The transporter drivers will be available prior to the start of the parade to sign autographs at the Bristol Mall. There also will be face painting for children, along with a “5-In-1 Sport” jump playhouse.

August race week kicks off Aug. 18 with a doubleheader that features the O’Reilly Auto Parts 200 Camping World Truck Series race and the UNOH Perfect Storm 150 Whelen Modified Series event. Sharpie Qualifying and the Food City 250 Nationwide Series race take place Friday night, Aug. 20.

Tickets for the IRWIN Tools Night Race are available for $109 each. These single-event tickets are renewable. Tickets for the Food City 250 start at $45 while Wednesday night tickets are $30.

Fans also may purchase a three-day package, which features all four NASCAR races, starting at only $170. Fans able to attend just the Friday and Saturday events may purchase a two-day package, beginning at $126.

To purchase tickets, please contact the BMS ticket office at its toll free number 1-866-415-4158 or 423-BRISTOL (274-7865) or buy online now.

Release courtesy of Bristol Motor Speedway