Okay, so, I got wind of this Enjoy Illinois 300 race thing, sounds pretty big, right? This year, I decided to make a plan and get going. So I grabbed my calendar and started figuring out the schedule.

First, I went online to do some digging. Found out this thing is a NASCAR Cup Series race, 300 miles long, and it’s held at the World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison. Seems like a huge deal, and they even mention it’s the largest spectator event of the year in the state.
Planning the Trip
They mentioned using maps and schedules on some website, but I just used the regular map app on my phone. Looked up the route to the raceway and figured out the best way to get there. I also checked out the public transport options just in case, but I planned to drive.
Getting the Schedule Down
- Parking Lots Open: 6:30 a.m.
- Spectator Gates Open: 7:00 a.m.
- Infield Fan Experience: 7:00 a.m.
I wrote all these down so I wouldn’t forget. I figured getting there right when the gates open would be a good idea to get a good spot and not miss anything.
The website also talked about how they brought this “coveted” race back to the region again in 2023 and how it was sold out two times in a row, so I guess it’s a pretty big event. They were hyping up the 2024 race, which is what I was aiming for.
Making It Happen
So, I marked the date on my calendar – Sunday, June 5, it was. I made sure to clear my schedule for the whole day because, you know, 300 miles and all the festivities, it’s gonna be a long one. I set my alarm clock for super early because I wanted to get there when the parking lots opened.

I packed a bag with some essentials – snacks, water, sunscreen, a hat, and my phone of course. I was ready to go and experience this Enjoy Illinois 300 thing. I figured it’s a good idea to be prepared. Woke up early, grabbed my stuff, and hit the road. The drive was smooth, got to the raceway without any issues.
I got there, parked my car, and headed to the gates. The atmosphere was already buzzing with excitement. Lots of people, everyone’s pumped for the race. I found a good spot, got settled, and waited for the action to start.
Overall, it was a pretty awesome experience. I planned it all out, got there on time, and enjoyed the whole day. If you’re into racing or just want to experience a big event, I’d say check out the Enjoy Illinois 300. Just remember to plan ahead and get there early!