Experience the Thrill: The Lifestyle Expo at the Grand Prix of Long Beach
When you think of the Grand Prix of Long Beach, the first thing that springs to mind might be the thrilling roar of high-speed IndyCars racing around the iconic streets. However, there’s more to this spectacular three-day event than just the rush of adrenaline—it features an exceptional lifestyle expo that delights and engages visitors of all ages.
A Unique Blend of Excitement and Leisure
Michael McElroy, the director of the lifestyle expo, is passionately clear about this distinction: “We are not a car show,” he emphasizes. With nearly two decades of experience under his belt, McElroy understands that the expo is about much more than automobiles—it’s a vibrant hub for unique experiences that cater to everyone, whether you’re a motorsports fanatic or simply looking for a fun day out.
The expo is nestled within 270,000 square feet of space, which serves as a vibrant marketplace buzzing with diverse activities. In fact, McElroy notes that about 90% of the Grand Prix’s nearly 200,000 attendees make it a point to explore the expo.
A Must-Visit Destination
“It’s kind of like the 405 freeway,” McElroy quips. “People have to go through the expo hall to get other views of the (race) track.” This clever analogy captures how integral the expo has become to the entire event, essentially creating a gateway to thrilling races while providing a much-needed respite from the high-octane environment outside.
Set to run from April 11 to 13, the expo will open doors from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. It promises to be a sensory delight filled with eye-catching exhibits and friendly interactions.
Exciting Attractions Await
You won’t want to miss this year’s innovations! Here’s a sneak peek of what attendees can look forward to:
New Additions in 2025
Historical Displays: Journey through time with a storyboard showcasing the Grand Prix winners over the past 50 years.
Meet the Legends: A 45-minute autograph session with racing icons Mario Andretti, Al Unser Jr., and Paul Tracy is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 12. Fans can bring personal items for signatures or grab hero cards on-site.
- Family-Friendly Progress: One Farm Fresh will introduce a convenient food delivery service, emphasizing meals that families can enjoy without missing out on racing fun.
Interactive Experiences
Returning favorites include Cooler Master’s immersive racing simulator, where fans can participate in the Dyn X Challenge tournament. The Family Fun Zone will offer interactive games and electric kiddie cars, ensuring that younger fans find just as much enjoyment as their adult counterparts.
“The look in their eyes says it all,” McElroy reflects. “To see those kids enjoying the cars is priceless.”
Behind the Scenes and More
The expo goes beyond entertainment by allowing visitors to peek into the heart of racing. The paddocks offer a rare chance to meet drivers, engineers, and mechanics—all while watching them work on the powerful machines up close. Educational booths promoting STEM programs will also be available, making it a wonderful blend of fun and learning.
McElroy shares his enthusiasm: “Just the sound of these old cars firing up is enough to make you go crazy.”
And for those with a sweet tooth, the ever-popular Chocolate Moonshine Co. returns with its gourmet fudge, a treat that fans have eagerly awaited.
Conclusion: The Essence of the Grand Prix
“This lifestyle expo is all about enhancing the overall Grand Prix weekend experience,” McElroy asserts. It serves as a sanctuary where attendees can step away from the high energy, regroup, and recharge before heading back out to the excitement.
When compared to other racing venues across the country, McElroy confidently states that none compare to Long Beach—a sentiment echoed by countless fans. “That’s our common goal—to see our fans enjoying themselves.”
As the Grand Prix of Long Beach approaches, don’t miss out on the chance to immerse yourself in this dynamic lifestyle expo. With every exhibit and attraction designed to thrill and entertain, it’s sure to be a highlight of your racing weekend!
For more information on the Grand Prix of Long Beach, visit their official site.
