Racecar enthusiasts will be speeding into Daytona beginning next weekend to celebrate the milestone 50th anniversary of the Rolex 24 at Daytona Jan. 28-29.

The annual event, which is the first major automobile race of the year in the U.S., showcases the world’s greatest drivers in Daytona Prototype and GT-class vehicles as they compete over 24 hours on a 3.56-mile road course on Daytona’s International Speedway. The course utilizes portions of the NASCAR tri-oval and an infield road course.

For 24-hours straight, drivers in the Rolex 24 at Daytona must endure competition from all sides with a track only 20% illuminated at night and unforgiving turns. Drivers who overcome the incredible obstacles go on to become a part of exclusive racing history so few ever get to experience. You don’t want to miss this thrilling race and the events that come with it!

More than just a race, the Rolex 24 at Daytona offers guests plenty of fun, food and entertainment both for racing fans and those who are just learning about the sport. And this year, guests can expect some special 50th anniversary events from the popular Daytona race.

Beginning even before race day, guests are welcome to celebrate Rolex 24 at Daytona’s 50 years with the 50 Years of Champions Procession beginning at 9 a.m. from the Ocean Center and traveling to Daytona International Speedway.

Guests will also be able to experience 80 years of carnival fun with Strates Shows of Orlando when they bring the largest Ferris wheel on the East Coast to the Speedway. And to win the title of best chili in Daytona, sign up for the chili cook-off on Jan. 28 from 3-6 p.m. Guests can show-off they’re cooking skills as they duke it out for the chance to take home the best chili award!

Before the big race, compete in a race of your own during the seventh annual Daytona 5K Run & Fun Walk. Runners and walkers will get the opportunity to pound the same pavement that the racecars will during their 24-hour challenge.

And for Rolex 24 at Daytona enthusiasts make sure you check out the Daytona Heritage Exhibition where Speedway officials have tracked down all of the past Rolex 24 at Daytona overall winning cars for the 50th anniversary celebration.

After marveling at the historical cars, head over the Sprint FanZone for a Rolex Sports Car Series autograph session sponsored by Grand-Am. Beginning at 12:15 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28, before the start of the race guest drivers will sign autographs for adoring fans.

Then hit the garage, where you can listen to the sounds of air-guns and drills as they get the vehicles ready for the 24-hour competition.