ALTON, Va. — VIRginia International Raceway is expanding beyond its traditional motorsports focus with the launch of a new 70-acre event venue designed to host concerts, festivals, outdoor exhibitions and other large-scale gatherings.
The new venture, known as Off Track Productions, occupies a dedicated portion of the raceway’s 1,300-acre campus at 1245 Pine Tree Road in Alton and is intended to broaden the facility’s year-round programming while attracting new visitors to Southern Virginia.
Track officials announced the initiative June 9, describing it as a strategic effort to build upon VIR’s reputation as a destination venue while creating opportunities outside its established racing schedule.
“VIR has always been more than just a racetrack,” VIR Chief Executive Officer Connie Nyholm said in a statement. “We hear all the time that it’s a destination. Off Track Productions reflects our commitment to growth, innovation and community investment.”
According to VIR, the event space includes multiple outdoor areas that can be rented individually or combined for larger events. The venue is being marketed to concert promoters, festival organizers and event producers seeking a large outdoor setting with existing infrastructure.
The raceway estimates its motorsports events attract approximately 350,000 visitors annually to the region, including portions of Pittsylvania and Halifax counties. Officials said the new venue is expected to draw additional audiences while supporting tourism and economic activity in the area.
VIR said the project incorporates investments in parking, road access, utilities and accessibility improvements. Raceway officials also cited coordination with local government agencies, public safety departments and emergency responders during development of the venue.
The facility offers access to on-site lodging, dining and other amenities already available on the VIR campus, creating what officials describe as a self-contained destination for large events.
Founded in 1957, VIR has become one of the nation’s best-known road-racing facilities, hosting professional and amateur motorsports competitions throughout the year. The addition of Off Track Productions represents a significant expansion of the property’s entertainment and event offerings.
The venue is now accepting inquiries from event organizers and promoters.
For more information, visit www.virnow.com/otp or www.virnow.com.