Southern 500 2027 at Darlington Raceway: Labor Day Weekend Tradition

Few races carry as much heritage as the Southern 500. The Cook Out Southern 500 is confirmed for Sunday 5 September 2027, the eve of the US Labor Day holiday, at Darlington Raceway in South Carolina. Here is the background, advice on seating and plans for a late-summer trip.

Southern 500: the oldest big date on the calendar

The Southern 500 was the first 500-mile race on the first paved superspeedway, run in 1950, and it was long held on Labor Day weekend. In 2027 it returns to that slot: Friday 3 September to Sunday 5 September, with Labor Day itself on the Monday. The date is confirmed, and as always the organiser has yet to publish timings. Fans like to dress in throwback colours as a nod to the past.

NASCAR Darlington: Round 26 on the Lady in Black

The egg-shaped Darlington oval has earned the nickname Lady in Black, and she punishes mistakes. Compared with the spring race at Darlington April, the late-summer date is hotter, tyres wear faster, and the race often turns on pit-stop strategy. The longer distance rewards stamina and pays off for crews with a plan.

Southern 500 seats

Tickets are not yet listed for the Southern 500. Register with our alert to be told as soon as they appear. The grandstands are a mix of old and new, so the view from a given section can differ more than the map suggests; read the details once seats go on sale.

Southern 500: planning your holiday weekend near Darlington

Darlington is a small town in the Pee Dee region, with Florence the nearest large centre. Because the race falls on a holiday weekend, hotels fill early and prices climb, so book early. Early September is hot and humid, with a hurricane-season risk of rain. The previous round was Daytona and the next is Richmond. See the NASCAR 2027 schedule for everything else.

Southern 500 2027: frequently asked questions

When is the Southern 500 in 2027?

Sunday 5 September 2027, with the weekend from Friday 3 September.

Why is the Southern 500 special?

It was the first 500-mile race at the first paved superspeedway and is tied to Labor Day weekend.

Are Southern 500 tickets on sale?

Not yet. Join the alert on this page.

Is the Southern 500 on the same track as the spring Darlington race?

Yes, the same Darlington Raceway oval.

Which round is the Southern 500?

Round 26 of 36.

Independent site, not affiliated with Formula 1, the FIA, MotoGP, Dorna or the event organisers. Names are used for information only.