Jimmy Eat World Performs Surprise Show at Florida Arby's Before Daytona 500

The 2000s rock band delighted fans with an impromptu concert at a Daytona Beach fast food restaurant just days before NASCAR's biggest race.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The popular 2000s rock band Jimmy Eat World surprised fans and NASCAR drivers with a pop-up performance at an Arby's restaurant in Daytona Beach, Florida, just days before the Daytona 500 race. The band, which is soon embarking on a 25th anniversary tour, took over the fast food spot on Ridgewood Ave. on Friday night, February 13th, ahead of the big race.

Why it matters

The unexpected Arby's concert generated a lot of excitement and buzz among NASCAR fans and the local community in Daytona Beach. It was an unusual and memorable way for the band to connect with their audience and promote their upcoming tour in the lead-up to one of the biggest events in motorsports.

The details

Jimmy Eat World, the 2000s rock band known for hits like "The Middle" and "Sweetness", took over the Arby's restaurant on Ridgewood Ave. in Daytona Beach, Florida on the evening of February 13th, just days before the Daytona 500 NASCAR race. The band performed a surprise set for fans and local residents, delighting the crowd with their signature sound.

  • Jimmy Eat World performed the surprise Arby's concert on February 13, 2026, just days before the Daytona 500 race.
  • The Daytona 500, NASCAR's biggest annual race, took place on February 16, 2026.

The players

Jimmy Eat World

A popular 2000s rock band soon embarking on a 25th anniversary tour.

Arby's

A fast food restaurant chain where Jimmy Eat World performed the surprise concert in Daytona Beach, Florida.

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What’s next

Jimmy Eat World is set to embark on a 25th anniversary tour in the coming months, with the Daytona Beach Arby's concert serving as an exciting preview for fans.

The takeaway

The surprise Jimmy Eat World concert at an Arby's in Daytona Beach demonstrates the band's creative approach to engaging with fans and generating excitement ahead of their upcoming tour, while also providing a unique and memorable experience for the local community.