North Carolina is setting the stage for a year of major events touching all corners of the state, from motorsports to music, Governor Josh Stein announced today. With a packed 2026 schedule, North Carolina aims to boost its economy and workforce through an array of exciting gatherings, revealed in partnership with North Carolina Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley and various local entities.
The state's lineup, which includes the NASCAR Cook Out Clash and World Cup Soccer Sendoff Game, reflects a concerted effort to generate a swell of economic activity and community engagement. These events are "not only entertain but also create jobs, drive tourism, and strengthen the local businesses that help our state thrive," Governor Josh Stein told press. Local venues like Bowman Gray Stadium and Bank of America Stadium are preparing for the influx of fans and competitors that these events are sure to attract.
Key gatherings on the horizon feature the NASCAR Race the Rock and the Biltmore Championship Asheville among others, drawing in both local and international spectators. These events are not just about entertainment—they're about creating jobs and stimulating local economies. The state has earmarked $13.5 million for the 2026 events through the Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund, hoping to cement North Carolina's status as a regional powerhouse for business and tourism.
Tourism, which is a huge economic driver for the state, saw record spending in 2024 with $36.7 billion splurged on travel-related expenses, highlights the importance of such strategic attractions. These events "are a major draw for visitors from across the country and the world," Wit Tuttell, Executive Director of Visit NC said as per North Carolina Office of the Governor. From the speed-fueled NASCAR races to the culturally significant HBCU Battle of the Bands, the state is using these attractions to bolster its appeal and fill up local establishments.
Reflecting diversity in entertainment as well as in economic impact, the event roster includes cultural celebrations like the HBCU Battle of the Bands. Such events "serve as powerful engines for economic impact, tourism, and community engagement while celebrating the rich legacy of Black excellence and tradition," Alvin Davis, CEO of the HBCU Legacy Organization, remarked on the North Carolina Office of the Governor. In addition, emergent sectors such as esports are also getting their time in the spotlight in North Carolina with state-support through an Esports Industry Grants Program.
For more details on North Carolina's Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund and the full slate of 2026 happenings, potential visitors and the locally curious can head to the N.C. Commerce website.
