SPECTATOR TICKETS: 55th Ignitor Nitro Opener
Fri May 15, 2026 - Sun May 17, 2026 
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Organizer Info
Firebird Raceway 
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The 55th Annual NAPA Ignitor Nitro Opener presented by The Blower Shop returns May 15, 16 & 17 (along with testing on 5/14). The Ignitor is the oldest major drag racing event in the Pacific Northwest featuring the second stop in the NHRA Hot Rod Heritage Nitro Funny Car Series. In addition, the NHRA Northwest Division Lucas Oil Drag Race opener will be hosted during the Ignitor weekend, too, at Firebird.
Event Details
Firebird Raceway is a full-service NHRA Drag Racing facility offering FUN for your entire FAMILY. By purchasing your tickets online, you will secure an admission credential, along with access to the pit area where all the action takes place. Parking for this event is free.
Firebird today is recognized and listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The raceway first opened in 1968. Although the track retains much of its original ambiance, vibe and character, Firebird is a first-class venue that fans of all ages can enjoy. We offer a wide range of delicious food and beverages, along with walk-in merchandise stores full of colorful shirts, sweats, hats and more. Since 1971, the Ignitor Nitro Opener is recognized as Firebird's longest running major event.
Spectator Hours
Thursday, May 14*
Test day starting at: 2 pm
*note: full event super pass required to attend the test day (Super Pass good for entire event)
Friday, May 15
Spectator gates open: 9 am
NHRA Class and Gold Cup qualifying, time trials and bonus races: 9 am - 8 pm
AA/Funny Qualifying (Q1): 3 pm
Concludes: 7 pm
Saturday, May 16
Spectator gates open: 9 am
NHRA Class and Gold Cup qualifying and time trials: 9 am - 7 pm
AA/Funny Car qualifying (Q2, Q3): 2 pm, 6 pm
Concludes: 7 pm
Sunday, May 17
Spectator gates open: 9 am
NHRA Class and Gold Cup eliminations: 9 am - 5 pm
AA/Funny Car eliminations: Noon, 2:30 pm, 4:30 pm
Concludes: 5 pm
Racer registration and crew passes will be available online (separate of spectator tickets) starting in mid-April.
Firebird today is recognized and listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The raceway first opened in 1968. Although the track retains much of its original ambiance, vibe and character, Firebird is a first-class venue that fans of all ages can enjoy. We offer a wide range of delicious food and beverages, along with walk-in merchandise stores full of colorful shirts, sweats, hats and more. Since 1971, the Ignitor Nitro Opener is recognized as Firebird's longest running major event.
Spectator Hours
Thursday, May 14*
Test day starting at: 2 pm
*note: full event super pass required to attend the test day (Super Pass good for entire event)
Friday, May 15
Spectator gates open: 9 am
NHRA Class and Gold Cup qualifying, time trials and bonus races: 9 am - 8 pm
AA/Funny Qualifying (Q1): 3 pm
Concludes: 7 pm
Saturday, May 16
Spectator gates open: 9 am
NHRA Class and Gold Cup qualifying and time trials: 9 am - 7 pm
AA/Funny Car qualifying (Q2, Q3): 2 pm, 6 pm
Concludes: 7 pm
Sunday, May 17
Spectator gates open: 9 am
NHRA Class and Gold Cup eliminations: 9 am - 5 pm
AA/Funny Car eliminations: Noon, 2:30 pm, 4:30 pm
Concludes: 5 pm
Racer registration and crew passes will be available online (separate of spectator tickets) starting in mid-April.
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