The 2026 DragCoverage Night of Fire, presented by American Rigging & Mechanical Service, returns to Alabama International Dragway in Steele, Alabama, on August 21-22, bringing one of the Southeast’s premier grassroots drag racing events back under the lights.
Known for combining elite Pro Mod competition with sportsman racing and a family-friendly atmosphere, this year’s Night of Fire is shaping up to be the biggest edition yet. From 3-second blown Pro Mods and nitrous-powered Pro Mods to bracket racers, index competitors, Jr. Dragsters, and the return of the fan-favorite Jet Semi, there’s something for every drag racing enthusiast.
One of the marquee attractions will once again be two separate Pro Mod categories, featuring both 3-second Blown Pro Mods and Nitrous Pro Mods, with no invitation required, giving racers from across the country the opportunity to compete on one of the Southeast’s biggest stages.
Fans can also look forward to seeing crowd favorite “The Fugitive” in action, adding another exciting chapter to an already stacked weekend of racing.
The sportsman side of the event is equally impressive, featuring substantial payouts across multiple classes. Electronics racers will compete for a $5,000 winner’s purse, while Footbrake competitors will race for $1,500 to win. Index racers will battle in the 5.30 Index, 6.00 Index, and 7.00 Index classes, each paying $2,000 to the winner, with guaranteed purses and .400 Pro Tree competition. The next generation of racers will also have their chance to shine in the Jr. Dragster class, racing for a $1,000 winner’s prize.
Competition begins Friday with open testing from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., first-round bracket racing at 6:30 p.m., and the first Pro Mod qualifying session at 8:00 p.m. Racing continues Saturday as the gates open at 9:00 a.m., followed by bracket time trials, index qualifying, and additional Pro Mod qualifying sessions at 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Admission remains affordable for fans, with tickets priced at $25 on both Friday and Saturday, while kids 12 and under are admitted free. General parking is free, with VIP spectator parking, pit parking, and camping also available throughout the weekend.
For event promoter TJ Pruitt and the DragCoverage team, Night of Fire has always been about more than just fast race cars. It’s about creating an event where grassroots racers compete in front of packed grandstands, fans experience the excitement of professional-level drag racing, and families can enjoy an unforgettable weekend at one of Alabama’s most historic drag strips.
As the engines fire and the lights come down on August 21-22, the 2026 DragCoverage Night of Fire is once again set to deliver the thunder, speed, and unforgettable moments that have made it one of the can’t-miss drag racing events in the Southeast.
Whether you’re chasing a winner’s check or looking for the best seat in the grandstands, Alabama International Dragway is the place to be this August.
