Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix Host’s Free Day Friday, along with Concerts

By Raymond Rolak/Sports Editor - Tell Us Detroit

DETROIT- If weekend event plans are still up in the air, the Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix is returning world-class auto racing to the Motor City, June 1-3. Friday, there will be a series of free events presented by PNC Bank.

Hotel space is available through the Detroit Sports Commission. http://www.visitdetroit.com 

The Grand Prix will feature “PNC Bank Free Prix Day” on Friday, June 1 when spectators can enjoy free admission for the day’s activities on Belle Isle.

“We are excited to continue the long-standing tradition of ‘Free Prix Day’ thanks to support by PNC Bank,” said Bud Denker, event chairman of the Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix. “We’re committed to hosting one of the most thrilling, memorable events in the racing world the first weekend in June.”

New on “PNC Bank Free Prix Day” this year is free admission to the paddock area, where fans can see drivers and their teams, racecars and various high-tech equipment of the sport. Also PNC is sponsoring the math and science initiative “Fifth Gear-Growing Up Great” to get young students interested in engineering curriculums.

Later in the day, live entertainment will feature legendary Detroit rocker, Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels when they perform on the MotorCity Casino Hotel Entertainment Stage at 6:30 p.m.

“PNC is providing free admission to make the program more accessible to families throughout Michigan and the Midwest,” said Ric DeVore, of PNC Bank.

Also, PNC Bank, at area Detroit branch offices is offering a voucher for one free general admission ticket to all of the activities at the Grand Prix on Saturday, June 2. The on-track action includes the Firestone Indy Lights race, the Cadillac V-Series Challenge race, the Chevrolet GRAND-AM 200 race and IZOD IndyCar Series qualifying.

Off track, Saturday attendees will have access to the Meijer Family Fun Zone and will be able to enjoy a variety of performances on the MotorCity Casino Hotel Entertainment Stage, including the B-52s concert on Saturday evening.