5 Shocking Updates On Elko Speedway & Drive-In Theater After The 2025 Takeover
The future of one of the Midwest's most unique and beloved entertainment venues, Elko Speedway & Drive-In Theater, has been secured, but not without a massive change that rocked the Minnesota racing community in 2025. After a quarter-century of dedicated ownership, the iconic short track and movie theater complex in Elko New Market, Minnesota, has officially transitioned to new hands, ushering in a fresh era of speed, spectacle, and cinema.
As of late 2025, the new ownership group, MEGA Properties, has vowed to maintain the track’s storied tradition, ensuring that the roar of the engines and the glow of the drive-in screen will continue for years to come. This article dives deep into the most current and critical updates, from the new management's vision to the must-see events on the 2025 racing calendar.
The New Era: Elko Speedway's 2025 Ownership Transition and Commitment to Tradition
The biggest news to hit the Elko Speedway community in 2025 was the official sale of the facility. For 25 years, the track was owned and operated by Tom Ryan, whose dedication cemented its status as a premier venue for short track racing and family entertainment.
In a move announced earlier in the year, Ryan officially completed the sale of Elko Speedway to MEGA Properties. This transition marks a new chapter, but the new owners have been quick to reassure the loyal fanbase that the core experience will remain intact. The sale secures the future of the track, which is a vital part of the local community in Elko New Market, Minnesota.
1. MEGA Properties' Vision: Continuity and Growth
While specific, long-term development plans from MEGA Properties are still emerging, the immediate focus is on continuity. The new ownership group has made it clear that all scheduled events for the 2025 season will proceed as planned.
The acquisition, which was described as cementing the future of one of the Midwest's most iconic short tracks, suggests an intent to build upon the foundation laid by Tom Ryan. Race fans and drive-in patrons can expect the same high-quality events and family atmosphere, with potential future investments aimed at improving the facility and enhancing the overall fan experience at the 3/8-mile high-banked paved oval.
2. The Full 2025 Racing Schedule is Locked In
The adrenaline-fueled action on the track is set to continue with a full and exciting 2025 racing schedule. Elko Speedway has been NASCAR-sanctioned since 1987, remaining a key part of the NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series, which draws top regional talent.
The schedule features a diverse lineup of racing divisions, showcasing everything from powerful stock cars to future stars in the sport. Key divisions regularly competing for the coveted track championship include:
- Late Models: The premier class, featuring top drivers like former champions Jacob Goede and Chris Marek.
- Thunder Cars: A popular, competitive division.
- Power Stocks: Delivering intense, bumper-to-bumper racing action.
- Legends Cars and Bandoleros: These classes are crucial for developing the next generation of racing talent.
- Hobby Stocks and Sportsman: Providing depth and excitement across the weekly racing program.
The 2025 season is packed with Saturday night events, with gates typically opening in the late afternoon and racing kicking off in the early evening.
The ASA STARS National Tour Returns: Thunderstruck 93
One of the most anticipated events on the 2025 calendar is the return of the ASA STARS National Tour for the annual Thunderstruck 93. This major Super Late Model event draws national attention and is a must-see for serious racing enthusiasts.
The 2025 Thunderstruck 93 is scheduled for Saturday, September 20, 2025. This race is not just a high-stakes competition; it's a tribute to the track's history and has seen emotional victories, such as Ty Fredrickson's special win in a recent season. The event features qualifying sessions followed by the main race, promising a full evening of high-speed drama.
The importance of this event cannot be overstated, as it brings some of the best Super Late Model drivers in the country to the Elko Speedway oval, providing a thrilling spectacle for the local fanbase and cementing Elko's place on the national short track map.
3. The Unique Dual-Purpose Facility: Race Day & Movie Night
What truly sets the Elko Speedway complex apart is its remarkable dual identity: a world-class short track that seamlessly transforms into a retro-style drive-in movie theater.
The Elko Drive-In Movie Theater is one of only a handful of remaining drive-ins in the greater Twin Cities area. It provides a nostalgic, family-friendly entertainment option, offering first-run films on Friday and Saturday nights throughout the summer season.
The drive-in experience is a perfect counterpoint to the high-octane racing. Patrons can tune into the film's audio via their car radio, enjoying the movie under the stars. The drive-in often operates in conjunction with the racing schedule, offering a complete weekend entertainment package.
4. Drive-In Season Kick-Off and Concessions
While the official 2025 movie lineup and opening date are typically released closer to the spring, the drive-in season historically aims to kick off around Memorial Day weekend, which signals the start of summer in Minnesota. Fans are advised to monitor the official Elko Speedway website and social media channels for the final release date and movie titles.
The concession stand is an essential part of the drive-in and speedway experience. It offers classic fare that adds to the nostalgic atmosphere, including popcorn, hot dogs, candy, and soda, ensuring a complete and satisfying night out for families and date-nighters alike.
5. The Spectacle of the "Eve of Destruction"
Beyond the championship racing, Elko Speedway is famous for its spectacle events, most notably the Eve of Destruction. This event is a fan favorite that trades precision racing for pure, chaotic entertainment.
The Eve of Destruction typically features a lineup of unique and destructive events, including:
- School Bus Races: Oversized vehicles navigating the track, often resulting in hilarious collisions.
- Figure-Eight Racing: Cars crossing paths in the center of the track, creating high-risk, high-reward moments.
- Enduro Races: Long-distance races with minimal rules, testing the endurance of both car and driver.
- Stunts and Demolitions: Including rollover competitions and other crowd-pleasing acts of motorized mayhem.
These events showcase the versatility of the venue and its commitment to providing diverse entertainment options, making Elko Speedway a regional hub for more than just traditional stock car racing. Fans who love the noise and chaos of a demolition derby will find the Eve of Destruction to be the ultimate night out.
With the new ownership in place and the 2025 calendar set, Elko Speedway & Drive-In Theater is poised for a successful and exciting season, maintaining its legacy as a cornerstone of Minnesota's entertainment scene.
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