Opening ceremonies will be at 9 a.m. with the blood drive starting at 9:30 in the infield Media Center. To recognize the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in the United States, Charlotte Motor Speedway and the American Red Cross will honor all first responders throughout the day, and hold a moment of silence at 9:02 a.m. to honor those who lost their lives.

Donors and their families can enjoy live music throughout the day. Children will have the opportunity to ride fire trucks around the track, jump in bounce houses and play interactive games at the Charlotte Motor Speedway Fan Van. Lug Nut the mascot and Bloodhound from the American Red Cross will also make appearances.

Participants will receive a free commemorative T-shirt and a drawing will be held for a Dale Earnhardt Jr. gift basket valued at $300.

To schedule an appointment to donate, visit www.redcrossblood.org. Click on “Search by Sponsor Code” and enter 16579. Or, call Amy Meyers with the American Red Cross at 704-676-1277.

Also, three more American Red Cross blood drives will be held in the Lake Norman area in September. Visit www.redcrossblood.org to schedule an appointment:

• Monday, Sept. 12, Davidson College Presbyterian Church, 218 Main St., Davidson, 2-6:30 p.m.

• Wednesday, Sept. 14, Presbyterian Hospital Huntersville, 10030 Gilead Road, Huntersville. 1-5 p.m.

• Friday, Sept. 30, Ben & Jerry’s, 202 S. Main St., Davidson, 3-7 p.m. Free pint of ice cream for all donors.