Thunder Thursday kicks off Grand Prix of Long Beach weekend

Hundreds gather for annual racing festival at the Pike Outlets

Apr. 17, 2026 at 2:34am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, depicting the dynamic movement and energy of racing cars, motorcycles, and crowds at a motorsports festival event.Neon-hued brushstrokes capture the electric atmosphere of Thunder Thursday, as racing fans gather to kick off the Grand Prix of Long Beach weekend.Long Beach Today

The popular Thunder Thursday event once again welcomed hundreds to downtown Long Beach, commencing festivities for this year's Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. The free, action-packed evening featured racing demonstrations, live music, classic and race cars on display, and opportunities for fans to meet drivers and crews.

Why it matters

Thunder Thursday is a long-standing tradition that kicks off the Grand Prix of Long Beach weekend, one of the most anticipated annual motorsports events in Southern California. The festival draws thousands of racing enthusiasts to the city, providing an economic boost and showcasing Long Beach's vibrant downtown.

The details

The event featured an NTT IndyCar Series pit stop competition, high-flying Freestyle MX motocross demonstrations, and displays of classic cars, race cars, and drift cars. Attendees could get autographs and meet pro drivers and pit crews. Live music by local bands Manuel the Band and The Ashe Brothers added to the high-energy atmosphere, and visitors enjoyed food vendors, a beer garden, and other activities.

  • The Thunder Thursday event took place on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
  • The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach weekend runs from April 17-19, 2026.

The players

Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach

An annual IndyCar Series and other motorsports event held on the streets of downtown Long Beach, California.

NTT IndyCar Series

The premier open-wheel racing series in North America.

Freestyle MX

A motocross discipline featuring extreme aerial stunts and tricks.

Manuel the Band

A local Long Beach-based musical group that performed at the event.

The Ashe Brothers

A local Long Beach-based musical group that performed at the event.

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What they’re saying

“Thunder Thursday is always such an exciting way to kick off the Grand Prix weekend. It's great to see the community come out and get a taste of the racing action.”

— Mateo Angeles, 9-year-old attendee

“We look forward to Thunder Thursday every year. It's a chance to get up close with the cars and drivers, and really get pumped up for the big race.”

— Cessy Griego, Long Beach resident

What’s next

The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach will take place from April 17-19, 2026, featuring IndyCar Series, Formula DRIFT, and other racing events throughout the weekend.

The takeaway

Thunder Thursday's mix of racing, music, food, and family-friendly activities provides an engaging kickoff to one of Long Beach's most anticipated annual events, drawing thousands to the city's vibrant downtown and setting the stage for an exciting Grand Prix weekend.