GENERAL

HyperFest takes place May 16–18, 2026. That’s Friday through Sunday, three days officially recognized as “not enough time.”

The Box Office* operates during the following hours for spectators:

  • Thursday (VIP+ ONLY): 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:30 PM
  • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Arrive outside these hours and the Box Office is closed; no credentials, no entry. Miss the window and you’ll be listening from the road. Also, please be prepared for significant delays if you choose to disobey all signage and staff.

Pro Tip: Carpool, carpool, CARPOOL!

*If you are a participant, vendor, staff, or volunteer, your times may be different.

NASA & drifting participant credentials are issued exclusively at the Registration Trailer during the following hours:

  • Thu: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Fri: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Sat: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  • Sun: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Credentials are NOT issued outside these times.

12AM-ish on Friday & Saturday and 6PM on Sunday - give or take a few. Subject to change.

Yes. Once you’ve received your credentials from the Box Office, you may enter and exit the venue 24 hours a day; just keep your festival wristband on.

That said, we strongly recommend avoiding unnecessary travel after 10:00 PM. HyperFest doesn’t shut down, but common sense should stay on duty.

No. The festival is all ages. To make it even better for you and the family, kids 12 and under are FREE with a paid adult admission ticket. We ask that you purchase your tickets, you add the number of "Under 12" tickets to your order, so that we can have the correct number of kids' wristbands ready.

(NOTE: Must be 18 to camp)

Yes. We have a festival map that shows all event activities, plus a camping map so you know exactly where you’re staying.

The camping map can be found here.

The festival map will be released as the event nears.

Participants must be at least 16 years old. Participants who are 16 or 17 must meet the following requirements:

  • A valid state- or government-issued ID
  • A parent or legal guardian present during the event
  • A waiver signed by both the participant and the parent/legal guardian

No ID, no guardian, no waiver = no on-track participation.

Yes, sort of. If you lose something, we’re hoping a good human turns it in.

You’re welcome to stop by the VIR Administration Building during daytime hours to check if your item has been recovered.

Please visit our contact page and select “Press/Media Inquiries”.

Yes, we are always looking for dependable, qualified, and passionate individuals to be a part of HyperFest!

If you'd like to volunteer, please fill out the form at this link.

If you'd like to be considered as a model for this year's event, please fill out the form at this link.

As jobs become available, we will post them on our website and social platforms.

No. Besides, marketing is totally overrated, and you should be trying to use less paper and enjoy HyperFest!

Food and/or Beverage Vending: Please visit our contact page and select “Food and/or Beverage Vending.”

Non-Food Vending: Please visit our contact page and select "Product / Service Vending".

Anyone with a valid GA or VIP wristband is welcome in the various camping areas at any time.

Only VIP+ wristbands and select driving participants can access the event on Thursday night.

No. If you don’t have vending approval from the festival organizers, your items will be surrendered / confiscated.

No. The HyperFest trademarks, intellectual property, passes, and wristbands may not be used for advertising, promotions, contests, sweepstakes, or any commercial purpose. Our official sponsors do so with the express permission of the event organizers. Please review our festival ticket terms.

Because.

TICKETS, PASSES, ORDERS, & SHIPPING

We offer General Admission (GA), VIP, VIP+, camping passes, and activity tickets.

Important part: GA is required to enter HyperFest. VIP and VIP+ include GA tickets. Camping passes and activity tickets are add-ons, not entry tickets.

Think of GA as the ignition key, nothing starts without it.

Yes, with limits. We offer discounts for active-duty and veteran military.

From time to time, we may also work with partners who can offer small GA ticket discounts. That said, no partner deal will ever beat our initial early-sale pricing. Those first tickets are the cheapest, the quantities are limited, and they go fast.

Yes, and first, thank you for your service. Active-duty military receive free admission, and veterans are eligible for a discounted $75 ticket to HyperFest. Military tickets are picked up at the Box Office so we can verify eligibility, so please bring a valid CAC or DD Form 214 when you arrive. Flash the ID, grab your wristband, and enjoy the weekend—you’ve earned it.

Think of it like this: GA gets you in. VIP upgrades how you experience it. VIP+ upgrades how you live there.

GENERAL ADMISSION (GA)

The key that unlocks HyperFest.

A GA pass is required for everyone to enter HyperFest. No GA = no entry.

Your 3-Day GA Ticket Includes:

  • Access to all on-track action: drifting, road racing, downhill race, rally, off-road, car show, burnout, and more
  • Entry to Club HyperFest for music and nightlife
  • Access to 100+ vendors
  • Ability to purchase official HyperFest merch
  • Access to food & beverage vendors throughout the venue
  • Kids 12 and under are free with a ticketed adult

VIP

Everything GA gets—plus comfort, convenience, and better views.

VIP is for people who want shorter walks, colder air, better sightlines, and fewer porta-potty adventures.

VIP Includes:

  • All GA access, plus:
  • VIP Parking near the admin building and bridge
  • VIP Drift Viewing Area at the Patriot Course with private bathroom
  • Air-Conditioned VIP Lounge with seating and elevated deck overlooking the Main Course
  • VIP Cash Bar with two (2) free drink vouchers*
  • VIP Viewing Area at Club HyperFest with private bathroom
  • Exclusive VIP badge & wristband

VIP+

The “don’t rush us, we’re already here” package.

VIP+ is the top-tier experience. Two people. Four days. Camping included. Maximum convenience.

VIP+ Includes:

  • Two (2) entries to HyperFest
  • Four days of access, starting Thursday afternoon
  • All GA + VIP access, plus:
  • One (1) VIP Car Camping Pass in Infield East
  • Two (2) additional drink vouchers
    (4 total per person)

*Must be 21+ with valid ID

Yes, but buying online is cheaper and faster. Tickets go on sale online each January and increase in price as the event approaches.

Pro Tip: Purchase online, have your ticket ready before you arrive, and spend your time inside HyperFest; not in line.

Easy. Your tickets are living their best life in your email, let’s go find them.

Step 1: Check your inbox (and spam/junk folder).
Search for your confirmation email. If you typed your email correctly, they’re probably already waiting for you.

Step 2: Didn’t get it? No problem.
Use our Resend Tickets tool (click here) and enter the same email you used when purchasing. If it’s tied to an order, boom, tickets sent.

Step 3: Still nothing?
Head back to the ticketing page and look for the “Resend” option at the top, or log into the Attendee Account Center (if available) to view and resend your tickets.

Step 4: Email typo strike? It happens.
If you fat-fingered your email during checkout, reach out to the event organizer so they can track it down and resend it properly.

Step 5: Last resort, call in backup.
If you’ve tried everything and are still empty-handed, hit the chat bubble and send us an SOS. Include your name, email, event name, and billing address, and we’ll help track things down.

Bottom line: your tickets aren’t gone, they’re just hiding. We’ll help you find them.

HyperFest is a rain or shine event; and yes, we’ve done rain before. It was still awesome.

All purchases are final. This includes driver registrations, event tickets (GA, VIP, VIP+ Passes), camping, activities, and any other items purchased through HyperFest.com or our official ticketing platform TicketSpice. No refunds. No cancellations.

CAMPING

Yes, this is HyperFest. Camping is a huge part of the experience. Hanging out with old and new friends, waking up at the track, and staying immersed all weekend is kind of the point.

If camping isn’t your thing, VIR does have an on-site hotel (it sells out fast), plus plenty of nearby hotels in Danville, VA; South Boston, VA; Roxboro, NC; and Milton, NC.

That said… camping is the move. No commuting, no re-entry lines, and no missing anything because you left the track.

Yes. VIR has bathrooms located throughout the facility, and we’ll also have plenty of port-o-potties set up around the venue specifically for this event.

Showers are available at:

  • North Paddock main concession building restrooms
  • North Paddock grid barn
  • Just outside the North Paddock entrance by the pond
  • South Paddock tech shed

Please be considerate with water usage, share the resource and don’t waste it.

Easy. Your camping passes are living their best life in your email, let’s go find them.

Step 1: Check your inbox (and spam/junk folder).
Search for your confirmation email. If you typed your email correctly, they’re probably already waiting for you.

Step 2: Didn’t get it? No problem.
Use our Resend Tickets tool (click here) and enter the same email you used when purchasing. If it’s tied to an order, boom, camping passes sent.

Step 3: Still nothing?
Head back to the ticketing page and look for the “Resend” option at the top, or log into the Attendee Account Center (if available) to view and resend your tickets.

Step 4: Email typo strike? It happens.
If you fat-fingered your email during checkout, reach out to the event organizer so they can track it down and resend it properly.

Step 5: Last resort, call in backup.
If you’ve tried everything and are still empty-handed, hit the chat bubble and send us an SOS. Include your name, email, event name, and billing address, and we’ll help track things down.

Bottom line: your tickets aren’t gone, they’re just hiding. We’ll help you find them.

For the full breakdown on camping types and where your rolling Margaritaville belongs, head over here.

TRACK EXPERIENCES

First of all, happy birthday. Second… yes.

For most ride experiences, participants must be at least 16 years old*, present a valid government-issued photo ID, and sign a liability waiver before entering the vehicle.

NOTE: If you’re 16 or 17, a parent or legal guardian must be onsite with valid ID and sign the waiver as well. No parent, no signature, no ride. We love adrenaline, but we also love paperwork done properly.

For select off-road rides that typically operate under 25 mph, younger children may be permitted to ride along provided they do not require a booster or child seat and can safely fit within the restraint system.

If you’re unsure which ride applies to you, check the specific ride description or ask ahead of time. We want you riding, safely and legally.

We don’t run this like an amusement park ride with a measuring stick, but fit absolutely matters.

There isn’t a strict cutoff, however ride vehicles have fixed race seats and multi-point harness systems that must close and lock properly. As a general guideline, riders are typically most comfortable between 5'0" and 6'4" in height and approximately 100–225 pounds. That said, these numbers are relative. It’s not just about weight, as waist size, chest size, shoulder width, thigh size, leg length, and overall torso shape all affect how the restraint system fits. A 220-pound athletic build and a 220-pound build with different proportions may fit very differently. Not every body type will safely fit every restraint system, and if the harness cannot close and secure properly, you will not be permitted to ride.

For safety, do not ride if you:

  • Are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant
  • Have heart conditions, high blood pressure, neck/back/spinal issues, recent surgery, bone or joint injuries
  • Have seizures, dizziness, severe motion sickness, or any condition that could be worsened by high-speed forces
  • Are wearing casts, braces, medical boots, or certain prosthetic devices that prevent proper restraint fit
  • Are under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any substance that may impair judgment or physical control

All participants must be able to maintain the required riding position, follow instructions at all times, and keep hands, arms, feet, and legs inside the vehicle. Do not attempt to exit unless instructed to do so.

If you’re unsure whether you’ll fit comfortably and safely, reach out ahead of time. We’d much rather answer questions early than disappoint you at the paddock.

Our goal is simple: secure harness, safe ride, huge smile.

Absolutely, as long as it’s the real deal.

Your helmet must properly fit and meet Snell 2010 (SA2010; M2010) or ECE 22.06 standards, or newer (or equivalent) for cars or motorcycles. If it’s a dirt bike helmet, a costume prop, or something that “should probably be fine,” it won’t pass.

Bring protection that protects. We like sending it. We don’t like concussions.

If you’re headed to the beach, absolutely. If you’re headed on track… not so much.

Participants must wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and a sleeved shirt (no tank tops). This is motorsports, not a pool party. If you show up in shorts, we do have loaner pants available, but let’s just say they prioritize safety over fashion.

Dress smart. Drive fast. Keep your toes covered.

You can bring a camera, but it must be securely tethered. If you drop it, it becomes a very expensive projectile, and we’re not into that.

That said, we strongly recommend you put the camera down and actually live the moment. There are plenty of drift videos online. There’s only one chance to feel this ride from the passenger seat. And while we’re at it, keep all hands, arms, cameras, and body parts inside the vehicle at all times. This isn’t a rollercoaster, although it is exciting.

WHAT CAN I BRING?

Everything but the kitchen sink.
But seriously, just because you can camp doesn’t mean you have to rough it. HyperFest is more fun when you’re prepared. Here’s what we recommend:

WEATHER & COMFORT

  • Rain gear (failure to bring it increases the chance of rain; bringing it decreases the chance of rain)
  • Sweatshirt or windbreaker (it can get chilly overnight)
  • Hat (shade is available in a lot of viewing areas, still smart to bring one)
  • Sunscreen (lots of it, reapply like it’s your job)

CAMPING ESSENTIALS

  • Camping gear (tent, tarp, sleeping bag, pillow)
  • Extra shoes / sneakers (wet, muddy, lost… don’t even ask)
  • Trash bags (fewer trips to the trash cans = more time enjoying the event)
  • Lantern / flashlight / headlamp + batteries (it gets dark around 9PM, you’ll be up later than that)
  • Small luggage lock for your tent (not perfect, but better than nothing)

PERSONAL & PRACTICAL

  • Bug spray (we recommend non-DEET… but we all know DEET works better)
  • Water (it’s May in Virginia, you will sweat)
  • Soap, shampoo, & towel (there are showers onsite, use them)
  • Earplugs (racecars make a very effective 8AM alarm clock)
  • Portable radio or speaker (camp vibes matter)

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED "JUST IN CASE" ITEMS

  • Extra set of keys (VIR is 1,300+ acres, losing them is a commitment)

Pro Tip: Pack like you’re camping, dress like you’re outside all day, and plan like you don’t want to leave once you arrive, because you won’t.

ALLOWED (Within VIR policy, because this is still a racetrack.)

  • Alcohol (per VIR policy)
  • Food & drinks
  • Coolers
  • Tents & chairs
  • Cameras (capture the memories)
  • Portable camping grills / cookouts (per VIR policy)
  • Generators (per VIR policy)
  • ATVs, golf carts, mini bikes (with required VIR Off-Road Vehicle Pass)
  • Pets (leashed and managed per VIR policy)

NOT ALLOWED
(These make safety meetings longer. Nobody wants that.)

  • Weapons of any kind
  • Drones / Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)
  • Fireworks
  • Illegal substances
  • Unauthorized/unlicensed vendors are not allowed. No unauthorized solicitation and materials including handbills, flyers, stickers, beach balls, give-aways, samples, etc. (Sharing with friends is fine. Selling requires vendor approval.)
  • Campfires or ground fires
  • Climbing on or over fences
  • Hoverboards or single-wheel powered devices
  • Smoking in buildings or on “hot” track areas

BOTTOM LINE

If it’s safe, respectful, and within VIR policy, you’re probably good. If it flies, explodes, sells things, or puts you somewhere you shouldn’t be, it’s probably not.

When in doubt, ask before you pack.

We get itpets are family. While VIR discourages bringing pets, they are allowed under a few very important ground rules to keep everyone (including your four-legged copilots) safe and happy.

If you bring a pet:

  • Leashes are required at all times (no exceptions, no free-range zoomies)
  • Please clean up after them—your fellow campers will thank you
  • No pets on False Grid or in pit areas (racecars and paws don’t mix)
  • No pets inside VIR buildings, concession areas, or lodging locations

If a pet isn’t being properly managed, VIR will locate the owner and both will be asked to leave. Nobody wants that ending.

A few important notes:

  • Pets found in lodging areas are subject to cleaning fees
  • Please do not leave pets unattended in vehicles. This is taken very seriously and is for their safety.

Bring your pet, be responsible, and everyone, including your furry crew member, can have a great HyperFest weekend.

Yes, but there’s a process. Any unlicensed pit, paddock, or off-road vehicle (including golf carts, pit bikes, ATVs, and similar) must be registered with VIR and display a current Off-Road Vehicle Pass at all times while on property.

Off-Road Vehicle Passes can be purchased online here.

No pass, no ride.

Alcohol is permitted at HyperFest, but it comes with rules. All sale, possession, and consumption must comply with Virginia ABC regulations.

Because HyperFest is a family-friendly event, VIR requires responsible consumption and orderly conduct at all times. No underage drinking, ever.

  • Beer and wine are available for purchase at concession locations such as Oak Tree Tavern, Pagoda Grill, and designated bars during music and after-party hours.
  • Beer in coolers is permitted for individual consumption.
  • Participants (drivers, competitors, etc.) may not consume alcohol until all official activities for their series or event are fully completed.

Drink responsibly. Be respectful. Let’s keep it fun for everyone.

The use of illegal drugs or dangerous narcotics, as defined by federal and / or state law, is strictly prohibited at HyperFest unless legally prescribed by a physician.

That said, drivers, crew members, mechanics, and staff are held to a higher standard. Any participant found under the influence of marijuana, prescription or not, will be ejected from the event and may be subject to suspension.

This policy is non-negotiable and enforced for safety.

WHAT'S AT HYPERFEST?

VIR has several permanent on-site food and beverage spots you can visit during HyperFest, including Oak Tree Tavern, Connie’s Pub, and the Pagoda Grill.

In addition, we’ll have a rotating lineup of food vendors available at various times throughout the day. Specific vendor lists and hours will be announced closer to the event.

Yes. There is an ATM located in the North Paddock near the Pro Shop.

Fuel options at VIR can change, so for the most up-to-date list of available octane grades, please visit VIR’s Fuel Information Page.

VIR offers golf cart rentals for both participants and spectators. To view availability, pricing, and rental details, visit Golf Cart Rentals.

TRAVEL

HyperFest takes over VIRginia International Raceway in Alton, Virginia.

📍1245 Pine Tree Rd, Alton, VA 24520
📍GPS: 36°33'07.6"N 79°11'43.1"W

It’s a world-class race facility tucked into the countryside, not the middle of a city. Trust your GPS.

General parking is free. Park it, lock it, enjoy HyperFest.

If you plan on staying overnight or for the weekend, check out our camping options, many of which include space for your vehicle right at your campsite.

Yes, you can drive in and park each day. Easy.

Once you’re inside, though, we ask that you limit unnecessary driving. HyperFest has a lot of foot traffic (including kids), so slow speeds and common sense go a long way. Also, please don’t cruise up and down the roads, it's not helping anyone and it creates congestion. If you want to show off your car, enter the Car Show.

Here’s the move:

  • Drive in
  • Head to General Parking or straight to your campsite
  • Park it

We’ll give you a map when you arrive, and staff will be on hand to point you in the right direction, no guesswork required.

Once parked, kick back. If you don’t feel like walking:

  • Hop on one of the tram routes around the venue, or
  • Bring a golf cart, pit bike, or similar vehicle (with a valid Off-Road Vehicle Pass, available online), or
  • Rent a golf cart

Park smart, drive slow, and let HyperFest do the rest.

HEALTH & SAFETY

HyperFest is a rain or shine event. We always hope for blue skies, but May in Virginia likes to keep things interesting.

Light rain won’t stop the fun. That said, if we experience heavy rain or extremely muddy conditions, certain activities; particularly Off-Road and Rally events, may be delayed, modified, or paused for safety reasons.

We’ll always prioritize safety and communicate any schedule changes as needed.

Your safety is a top priority at HyperFest. On-site security is available 24 hours a day throughout the event, and emergency medical staff are on standby starting 30 minutes before the track goes hot and continuing 30 minutes after on-track activity ends.

If you need assistance at any time, please reach out to any HyperFest staff member, VIR personnel, or security officer. Help is never far away.

FIRST AID SERVICES

First Aid is located in the North Paddock.

Lots of things can happen at HyperFest, bee stings, friendly game of Twister injuries, dehydration, or the occasional splinter. That’s why VIR medical staff are on site and ready to help.

If something doesn’t feel right, don’t power through it. Head to First Aid or ask any HyperFest, VIR, or security staff member to point you in the right direction.

Everywhere. Campgrounds, courses, buildings, if you’re on the property, security isn’t far away.

Our security team is here to make sure everyone stays safe and has a great time. They’re available 24 hours a day, with patrols roaming the campgrounds and venue in golf carts and trucks throughout the event.

If you have a concern or need assistance, don’t hesitate to flag them down, they’re there to help.

If security asks you to do something (like turning music down late at night), please comply respectfully. They’re not trying to kill the vibe, they’re making sure HyperFest stays fun, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.

Important note: All vehicles on VIR property are subject to search. Keep that in mind when deciding what to bring.

BOTTOM LINE

Be cool, be respectful, and we’ll all have a better weekend.

VIR’s roads may not look like city streets, but they’re designed to work, as long as they stay open. That’s where everyone helps out.

Please:

  • Park only in designated areas
  • Avoid unnecessary driving around the venue
  • Keep roadways clear at all times

Parking somewhere you shouldn’t might seem convenient in the moment, but it can block emergency or maintenance vehicles—and yes, improperly parked vehicles may be towed.

BOTTOM LINE

Clear roads = faster help when it matters.
Thanks for helping keep HyperFest safe and running smoothly.

When walking, stay to the sides of the road, and always yield to official vehicles. If they’re coming through, it’s likely time-sensitive.