Bristol, TN, September 23, 2025
News Summary
Downtown Bristol has thrived following successful events like the NASCAR race and Rhythm & Roots Reunion, boosting local businesses significantly. Owners report strong sales and large crowds. As excitement builds for the upcoming Oktoberfest, the economic impact of these gatherings remains evident. The Speedway Classic will also make history as the first MLB game in Tennessee, further enhancing the area’s vibrant atmosphere. Despite some operational challenges during events, Bristol continues to flourish as a destination for both locals and visitors.
Downtown Bristol has experienced a significant boost in business following the recent events, the NASCAR race and the Rhythm & Roots Reunion. Local business owners reported large crowds and strong sales during these back-to-back weekends, contributing to a lively atmosphere in the area.
Business owners have expressed that the energy in Downtown Bristol remains high as they prepare for the upcoming Bristol Oktoberfest. The Oktoberfest is set to take place on Saturday, September 27th, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. The revitalization of the area is a direct result of the successful events that drew visitors from far and wide.
John Griffith, the owner of The Corner restaurant, noted that his business saw a significant sales boost specifically during race weekend. This year marked the fifth consecutive year of their participation in the Rhythm & Roots Reunion, with sales being their best yet. Additionally, Cheap Thrills Records reported record-breaking sales and an influx of new customers during the festival, according to their employee known as Jukebox Jess. These positive experiences highlight the economic impact of such events on local establishments.
Beyond the local businesses, major events in Bristol continue to shine, one of which is the Major League Baseball (MLB) unveiling of the Speedway Classic uniforms for the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds. Designed to reflect racing aesthetics while maintaining a classic sports look, these uniforms will be worn during their matchup at the Bristol Motor Speedway on August 2. Hats designed by New Era Cap illustrate a motorsport theme, with the Braves’ cap featuring flames and the Reds’ showing checkered racing flags. Moreover, Rawlings has produced helmets styled after NASCAR designs, incorporating race-style player numbers and checkered flag emblems.
The Speedway Classic will mark the first-ever MLB game played in Tennessee and follows a trend of unique MLB games held in non-traditional locations since 2016, including Fort Bragg and Field of Dreams. Additionally, this event promises to be engaging for fans with a pregame concert by notable artists such as Tim McGraw, Pitbull, and Jake Owen. The Speedway Classic Fan Zone will offer live music, local food vendors, and interactive games, accessible to MLB ticket holders starting at 12:00 p.m. on game day.
However, the Speedway Classic faced challenges when it was suspended due to rain, leading to complaints from fans regarding concession stand shortages. In light of the venue running out of food items during the delay, many fans resorted to purchasing food and drinks from nearby gas stations. Some attendees even compared the experience to the notorious Fyre Festival, highlighting the operational difficulties faced during the event.
Summary of Bristol’s Events
- Surge in Business: Downtown Bristol experienced increased sales and crowds during the NASCAR race and Rhythm & Roots Reunion.
- Upcoming Oktoberfest: Scheduled for September 27th, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- Unique MLB Event: The Speedway Classic to be held at Bristol Motor Speedway as the first MLB game in Tennessee.
- Challenges Faced: Event faced postponements and complaints regarding food shortages.
Upcoming Local Events
- Bristol Oktoberfest: September 27th, 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
- Speedway Classic: MLB game on August 2, featuring pregame concert and festivities.
Both local events and the Speedway Classic are poised to create ongoing economic benefits for Bristol.
FAQ
What recent events contributed to the surge in business in Downtown Bristol?
The recent NASCAR race and Rhythm & Roots Reunion contributed to the surge in business.
When will the Bristol Oktoberfest take place?
The Bristol Oktoberfest is scheduled for Saturday, September 27th, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
What is the Speedway Classic?
The Speedway Classic is the first-ever MLB game played in Tennessee, featuring the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds at Bristol Motor Speedway.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Downtown Business Surge | Increased sales and crowds during the NASCAR race and Rhythm & Roots Reunion. |
| Bristol Oktoberfest | Scheduled for September 27th from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. |
| Speedway Classic Event | First MLB game in Tennessee with pregame festivities. |
| Concession Issues | Complaints regarding shortages and event suspension due to rain. |
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Additional Resources
Bristol Herald Courier: Country Thunder will not return to Bristol in 2025- Wikipedia: Bristol
- MLB News: Speedway Classic Fan Zone Unveiled
- Google Search: Bristol Speedway Classic
- Cincinnati.com: MLB Speedway Classic: Fans allowed to bring food
- Google Scholar: Bristol Motor Speedway
- Speedway Digest: Braves and Reds to wear NASCAR-inspired uniforms
- Encyclopedia Britannica: MLB Speedway Classic
- The New York Times: Speedway Classic Attendance Record
- Google News: MLB Speedway Classic
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
