Picture this: engines growl, tyres sizzle on the track, and your pulse races. Whether you crave thunderous dragsters or the finesse of drift slides, slick tricks racing events will deliver pure adrenaline. Let’s dive into your one-stop guide covering dates, tips, and insider advice for the best races around.
Discover slick tire events
Slick-tyre racing covers a range of motorsport and off-road challenges where smooth, rubber-only tyres grip hard-packed surfaces. You’ll find three main categories:
- Drag racing: straight-line sprints from a standing start, often on a quarter-mile strip.
- Circuit and drift events: laps of tarmac or controlled slides around corners.
- Off-road rallies and MTB races: mixed terrain courses testing bike or truck handling.
Each discipline demands a different skill set, from perfect reaction timing at the Christmas tree (the drag-strip start lights) to mastering weight transfer in a high-speed drift. In this guide you’ll get the lowdown on top venues and upcoming dates, plus practical planning pointers.
Dive into drag racing
If raw speed is your jam, drag racing is a must-see. Europe’s original permanent drag strip, Santa Pod Raceway in North Bedfordshire, paved the way back in 1966 when organisers repurposed a wartime airfield. Since then it’s hosted over 60 events each year, from FIA/FIM European Championships to public track days where you can burn rubber with your own ride.
Santa Pod highlights
- Easter Festival of Power – a family favourite, featuring 55 women and girls among 312 drivers and riders
- Top Fuel Dragster match race – catch Europe’s own Susanne Callin and Britain’s Liam Jones tearing up the strip
- Run What Ya Brung (RWYB) – anyone with a valid licence can launch down the dragway
- Drift What Ya Brung (DWYB) – slide sessions for drift enthusiasts of all levels
Ready to race or spectate? Explore upcoming dates at Santa Pod in the UK or grab tickets at Santa Pod Tickets.
What to expect
- 300 mph Top Fuel dragsters and jet cars
- Monster trucks and stunt displays
- Live music and family-friendly zones
- Food stalls, merchandise tents, and kids’ activities
Explore drifting and stunt shows
Drifting blends speed with style, as drivers control oversteer through tight corners. Events like DWYB give you open track time to practice power slides, smoke-filled burnouts, and rear-end flicks. If you want to refine your technique, check our guide to slick tricks racing techniques.
Beyond drift sessions, many venues add stunt demos, from jet-powered dragsters to precision stunt bikes. These displays show off vehicle control at its wildest, so pack your camera and get close to the action.
Gear up for mountain bike races
Not all slick-surface thrills happen on four wheels. The Road Apple Rally MTB Race in Farmington, New Mexico, proves two-wheel events can be just as epic. Held since 1981, it’s America’s longest continuously running mountain bike race, and 2024 added a youth-friendly 4.4-mile sprint course.
Course options
| Course | Distance | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Long Course | 30 miles | Experienced riders seeking a challenge |
| Short Course | 15 miles | Intermediate racers |
| Sprint Course | 4.4 miles | Youth and beginner racers |
Plus, the weekend lineup includes a criterium race and a Pro Rider Panel Discussion, so spectators and racers can swap stories and tips.
Plan your visit
Whether you’re jetting into the UK for Santa Pod or hopping a flight to New Mexico, a little prep goes a long way.
Tickets and merchandise
- Drag-strip events: book via Santa Pod Tickets or call 01234 782828
- Rally entries: register on site at Lions Wilderness Park or check local MTB clubs online
- Souvenirs: grab championship gear for adults and kids at Santa Pod Shop or at event stalls
Travel and lodging
- UK: stay in nearby Bedfordshire towns for budget-friendly B&Bs, or camp onsite during major festivals
- New Mexico: Farmington offers hotels minutes from Lions Wilderness Park, plus RV hookups for adventure campers
- Always check weather forecasts, pack layered clothing, and bring ear protection for loud engines
Try these first-time tips
If you’re new to slick tricks racing events, here’s how to make the most of your day:
- Arrive early for prime viewing spots and warm-up runs
- Bring snacks, water, and sun protection (even on cloudy days)
- Wear earplugs or earmuffs, especially at drag strips
- Download event schedules in advance to catch your favourite heats
- Check out our slick tricks racing tips for gear recommendations and insider hacks
Remember key takeaways
- Drag racing at Santa Pod offers top-fuel match races, public track days, and family fun.
- Drift events let you hone power slides; our techniques guide can help.
- The Road Apple Rally combines rugged terrain with courses for every skill level.
- Book tickets early, pack smart, and plan your lodging around event hotspots.
- Use our slick tricks racing competitions page to find your next adrenaline fix.
Now that you’ve got the rundown, pick your event, grab your gear, and get ready to experience slick tricks racing events at full throttle. See you at the track!