Formula Drift is sliding back onto the Streets of Long Beach this weekend, kicking off the 2026 PRO season with a Friday sneak-peek on April 10 and the Top 16 main event on April 11. The waterfront course winds around the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center and Marina Green, and organizers are warning fans to expect busy streets and packed grandstands.
Schedule and where to watch
According to Formula DRIFT's schedule, Friday is set up as a warmup day with practice sessions, warm-ups, and a livestreamed qualifying window. Saturday is the main show, with a track walk, opening ceremony, and the Top 16 main event. The schedule lists general venue hours of about 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days, with the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center (300 E. Ocean Blvd.) as the official event address. A city Facebook reel posted April 8 hyped the season opener and pointed followers to Formula Drift ticket and livestream information via Long Beach City on Facebook.
Street closures and getting here
Per the City of Long Beach press release, Shoreline Drive between Ocean Boulevard and Shoreline Village Drive will be closed from about 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on both April 10 and April 11. The release also outlines broader Acura Grand Prix-related closures that begin April 15 and recommends parking at The Pike parking structure or at the Long Beach Convention Center for race spectators. Aquarium of the Pacific visitors are advised to watch for changes to Aquarium parking access and to use the available shuttle service during race week.
Tickets, livestream, and what to bring
Tickets and VIP packages are currently on sale, with Formula DRIFT's announcement detailing general-admission, two-day, and VIP options, including a Photo Experience package. Ticketmaster lists Friday-only “Sneak Peek” tickets and Saturday main-event tickets for the Long Beach stop. Event rules spell out prohibited items such as drones, glass bottles, canopies, and weapons, so plan to travel light and give yourself extra time for security checks.
Plan for crowds
Visit Long Beach suggests using ride-hailing or public transit and notes reserved parking at The Pike and Shoreline lots during Grand Prix and Formula Drift weekends. Expect heavy sidewalk traffic near Pine Avenue and Shoreline Village as restaurants and hotels handle the surge in visitors, and consider arriving early if you are aiming for nearby parking or a prime grandstand seat. Officials say any schedule or access changes will be shared through city channels if plans shift.
.jpg){kind=link}