Get ready for flying dirt, the smell of exhaust and all the sounds, sights, smells and excitement that only a dirt racetrack can bring.

Racing fans can plan to hit the track at Grays Harbor Raceway for opening night on April 19, with races planned throughout the season, ending Sept. 27. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and races start at 7:00 p.m. Races typically end around 9:30 or 10:00 p.m. making for a full night of racing fun. Be sure to bring along jackets or blankets since nights can get chilly at the track.

Races will include sprint cars, modifieds, street stocks and midgets.

Fans can expect three big fireworks shows this season. On Memorial Day they’ll have a big fireworks show and mid-season there will be another fireworks show during the mid-season championship. Then, there will be another big fireworks show for the championship race on Sept. 27.

Grays Harbor Raceway draws fans from throughout the region. For those visiting specifically for racing events, there are several options for lodging. Both the Lucky Eagle Casino, and the Little Creek Casino are 15 to 20 minutes away from the Raceway, and are great options for a place to stay. The Stay Beyond Inn and Suites is another option in the heart of Elma and is pet friendly, including an outdoor run for Fido. Just down the road in Montesano the Guesthouse Inn and Suites by Red Lion offers pet friendly rooms, free breakfast and Wi-Fi all for a surprisingly low nightly rate.

Camping is also available for those making a visit to the Raceway a weekend-long affair. The nearest option is at the Grays Harbor Fairgrounds. Be sure to visit the Fairgrounds website for camping rules and reservations as well as specific pricing and details for big racing dates. Camping is also available in the many campgrounds throughout Grays Harbor including Montesano’s Lake Sylvia State Park, Elma RV Park and Friends Landing.

For food, Elma has plenty of restaurant options, such as the Rusty Tractor or El Ranchon for a sit-down dining experience. The Eagle’s Nest and Smitty’s In & Out are perfect spots for a local burger drive-thru. Clark’s Restaurant in Artic is just a 23-minute drive from Elma and has great food (voted best burger in the region) and wonderful homemade ice cream.

For more restaurant options, Montesano, Aberdeen and Hoquiam are within a short drive with a wide variety of dining and entertainment options.

At the Raceway itself, a variety of food and drinks are also available during races.

A visit to the Grays Harbor Raceway can be a fun night out with the family or a group of friends. Pricing varies for special event races,

Head down to the Grays Harbor Raceway this season and make dirt racing a part of your own family history and memories too. For a full schedule, tickets, and more information, visit Grays Harbor Raceway online.