“The American 250” to Bring Huge Fireworks Spectacular and NASCAR Racing to the Central Valley on July 4
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Independence Day event at Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway will feature a Drag-A-Boat Race, NASCAR competition, family entertainment, and one of the area’s largest fireworks shows.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway will host one of the Central Valley’s
premier Independence Day events on Saturday, July 4, 2026, with “The American 250”— a
Fourth of July celebration featuring one of the area’s largest fireworks spectaculars, family
activities, and NASCAR racing.
Located off Interstate 5 between Bakersfield and Taft in Kern County, Kevin Harvick’s Kern
Raceway expects fans from throughout the Central Valley and surrounding communities to
attend the event.
As communities across California continue facing rising production costs for fireworks events
and the cancellation of several local celebrations, Kern Raceway is making a major investment into delivering a large-scale Independence Day experience for the region. Additionally, by partnering with California Resources Corporation and Carbon TerraVault, 500 community members in Maricopa, Taft, and Buttonwillow will be invited to attend the festivities for free.
The event will feature the fan-favorite Drag-A-Boat Demolition Race, NASCAR Limited Late
Models competing for $5,000-to-win, and NASCAR Spec Racer competition — bringing together grassroots motorsports, live entertainment, and a patriotic atmosphere.
The evening will conclude with a huge professional fireworks spectacular celebrating America’s 250th birthday.
“We wanted to create a true Fourth of July destination for the entire community,” said Tim
Huddleston, Owner, and CEO of Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway. “The American 250 is designed to bring together racing, entertainment, patriotism, and large-scale fireworks show into one unforgettable night. We also want to thank California Resources Corporation and Carbon TerraVault for helping make this event possible and for supporting a major Independence Day celebration for families in the Central Valley.”
Kern Raceway officials hope The American 250 becomes an annual Fourth of July tradition for years to come.
Event Highlights
• Massive Fireworks Show
• Drag-A-Boat Demolition Race
• NASCAR Limited Late Models — $5,000 to Win
• NASCAR Spec Racer Competition
• Patriotic Fourth of July Atmosphere
• Live Family Entertainment
Ticket Information
Tickets for The American 250 are on sale now with special launch pricing available for a limited time.
Early Bird Pricing (Online Purchase Only)
Available Through June 7
• Adult General Admission — $22
• Kids General Admission — $12
• Premium Seating — $27
• Family 4-Pack — $55
Fans are encouraged to purchase early to secure the best available pricing before ticket prices increase closer to Independence Day weekend.
Seating inventory is limited, so order now while supplies last.
Event Information
Date: Saturday, July 4, 2026
Location: Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway
13500 Raceway Blvd.
Bakersfield, CA 93311
Gates Open: 4:00 PM
Racing Begins: 7:00 PM
Tickets are available now at:
Follow Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway on social media for updates, promotions, and event
announcements.
About Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway
Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway is the Central Valley’s premier motorsports and entertainment
venue featuring NASCAR-sanctioned racing, special events, demolition entertainment, and live experiences throughout the year.
