NASCAR moving annual awards show to Charlotte for the first time

NASCAR’s awards ceremony is coming to Charlotte.

The annual end-of-season celebration for the highest circuits of stock car auto racing will be held at the Charlotte Convention Center in uptown on Nov. 22. The ceremony is a tradition that dates back to 1981 and has previously been held in New York City, Las Vegas and Nashville.

This year’s event — being held in NASCAR’s hometown for the first time — will air on the CW from 3 to 5 p.m. Nov. 24. Champions , most popular drivers and more standouts of the Cup, Xfinity and Truck series will be honored.

“We are pleased to announce our move to the Queen City for our postseason celebrations.” Michelle Byron , NASCAR’s chief partnership and licensing officer, said in a release. “Being able to trace many of our sport’s racing roots back to the North Carolina area, you can feel the energy and passion for NASCAR from the fans in Charlotte. We’re excited to officially crown our champions in the Queen City.”