2026 Major North Carolina Events To Boost Tourism Announced
This week, the North Carolina Department of Commerce announced the list of 2026 events supported by the Major Events, Games, and Attractions fund. This program was authorized by the Republican-led General Assembly, through additional tax revenues generated by legalizing sports gambling. This year the state is spending $13.5 million in events support for 2026 major events, that significantly help boost tourism in North Carolina.
“North Carolina is proud to support major events that bring excitement to our communities while providing opportunities for workers, local businesses, and visitors alike,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “By partnering with local communities, we help them compete for and host major events that highlight what makes each community unique and bring people together across the state.”
In 2024, visitors to North Carolina spent a record $36.7 billion on travel and tourism-related goods and services, generating economic activity from the outer banks to the Smokies.
“Events like these are a major draw for visitors from across the country and the world,” said Wit Tuttell, Executive Director of Visit NC and Vice President of Tourism for the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina. “By supporting these events, we are not only boosting tourism dollars and local business activity but also giving North Carolina communities a chance to shine on the national and global stages.”
Key Upcoming Events – 2026:
NASCAR Cook Out Clash, Bowman Gray Stadium, Winston-Salem – Jan. 31–Feb. 1 | Thrilling start to the auto racing season with high-octane competition and fan excitement.
NASCAR Race the Rock, Rockingham Speedway, Richmond County – April 3–4 | Motorsports action drawing visitors from statewide and beyond.
The Soccer Tournament 7v7, Wake Med Soccer Park, Cary – May 27–June 1 | Men's and women’s soccer stars compete in the world’s premier 7v7 soccer festival.
World Cup Soccer Sendoff Game, Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte – May 31 | Celebrating North Carolina’s soccer fans as the U.S. men’s national team heads to the world stage.
MLS All-Star Game, Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte – July 29 | Major League Soccer’s biggest names showcase their skills in an all-star spectacle.
Biltmore Championship Asheville, The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, Arden – Sept. 17–20 | National professional golf competition drawing fans and players to the scenic Blue Ridge region.
NHRA Nationals, Rockingham Dragway, Richmond County – Sept. 25–27 | High-speed drag racing thrills for motorsports enthusiasts.
HBCU Battle of the Bands, First Horizon Coliseum, Greensboro – Nov. 8 | Showcasing the energy and talent of historically Black colleges and universities.
What They Are Saying About These Events:
“NASCAR is proud to once again bring the Cook Out Clash to Bowman Gray Stadium as part of North Carolina’s long-standing motorsports legacy,” said Ben Kennedy, EVP, Chief Events & Venues Officer. “NASCAR events like this showcase the passion of our fans worldwide and deliver real economic benefits to the local communities that welcome us.”
“North Carolina continues to prove itself a premier destination for major sporting events,” said Andrew Schmidt, President and Chair, North Carolina Sports Association. “The state’s strategic investments, strong local partnerships, and proven ability to host events of all sizes make North Carolina competitive on the national and global stages.”
“HBCU cultural events serve as powerful engines for economic impact, tourism, and community engagement while celebrating the rich legacy of Black excellence and tradition,” said Alvin Davis, CEO of the HBCU Legacy Organization. “Support from the North Carolina Department of Commerce and our local partners allows us to deliver world-class experiences that attract visitors from across the region, create meaningful opportunities for students and artists, and leave a lasting impact on the communities we serve.”
"These events deliver a strong return for North Carolina communities," said Representative John Bell. "By supporting major events, we're helping to boost local economies and showcase our state as a great place to live, work, and visit."
“Major events put our towns and cities on the map, not just for visitors, but for the residents who take pride in their community,” said Senate Majority Whip Todd Johnson. “They create shared experiences that bring people together and showcase the unique spirit and character of North Carolina.”
More information about the Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund and North Carolina’s 2026 schedule of events is available on the N.C. Commerce website.
