Dirt Track Racing Returns to Middletown New York for 2026

So 2026 is underway, and it is going to be a big year. Lots of annual events will be returning, and that includes racing at the Orange County Fair Speedway in Middletown, New York.

2025 hadn't come to a close before the news broke, and fortunately for Hudson Valley racing fans such as myself, the Orange County Fair Speedway is lining us up for another big year of racing excitement on the historic New York dirt track. Brett Hearn and Doug Dulgarian are behind what will be the 107th year of racing on the track, and it promises to be exciting.

The Orange County Fair Speedway Racing Schedule for 2026

The Orange County Fair Speedway has announced through its social media that racing will once again take place on the track for the 107th year in 2026. The Big Series is back for a 3rd year. The 2026 Big Series 3 has five dates listed for racing, which will wrap up with a Champions Night on Sunday, September 20th.

READ More: Hot Country Concerts Coming to New York and Connecticut in 2026

The season opener is scheduled for Sunday, May 3rd, then the next race will be the fan favorite Nostalgia Night on Sunday, June 7th. The Mid Summer Heat race is scheduled for July 12th, and you won't want to miss the racing on Sunday, August 9th, which is the race that officially marks the milestone of 107 years of racing at the Orange County Fair Speedway.

Two Places To Watch Racing at the Orange County Fair Speedway

I am not sure the exact year I went to my first dirt track race in Middletown, but I can clearly remember how exciting it was to see the cars. We choose to watch from the drive-in, which, if you haven't ever done I highly recommend you do it once. Of course, sitting in the grandstand for the trackside view can't be beat either.

They have not said when tickets will go on sale, but I will be sure to spread the word as soon as I get word that they are on sale.