Shawano Speedway, just outside the city of Shawano, Wisconsin, is a classic half-mile dirt oval that's been a fixture of the local racing scene for years. Expect a genuine dirt track experience: close racing, plenty of slide jobs, and the ever-present possibility of mud on your clothes. They run regular weekly events, generally on weekend nights, with different classes of cars from stock cars to modifieds, plus special races sprinkled throughout the season that draw competitors and fans from across the region. Being a dirt track, the emphasis is on the racing itself. Concessions are available, serving up typical track fare, and camping on the grounds is usually permitted, making it easy to make a weekend of it. Shawano Speedway is the kind of place where you can bring the whole family, enjoy some exciting racing under the lights, and feel like you're part of a community. It's ideal for dedicated dirt track fans, those looking for an affordable night out, and anyone wanting to experience a taste of grassroots motorsports in the heart of Wisconsin.
Watch: Shawano Speedway
Know Before You Go
- Race nights
- Most short tracks run Friday or Saturday night events from April through October. Always check the season calendar — many venues take rain dates or holiday breaks.
- Ticket pricing
- General admission is typically $15-40 for adults, pit passes $50-100. Children are often free or half-price. Bigger sanctioned events (touring series) cost more.
- What's racing
- Local oval classes commonly include late models, modifieds, sprint cars, hobby stock, and street stock. Bigger ovals also host NASCAR Weekly Series feature races.
- Bring earplugs
- Open-exhaust race cars push 130-145 dB at the fence — well above the threshold for hearing damage. Bring foam plugs or over-ear protection for kids.
- Schedule rhythm
- Race nights follow a consistent flow: hot laps and qualifying, heat races, then feature events. Plan for a 4-5 hour evening from gates open to checkered flag.