The Watkins Glen Grand Prix Festival is set to take place on Friday, bringing race re-enactments, tours, and downtown festivities.
As part of the tradition, the original race circuit will be closed to public traffic from 5:45 p.m. to approximately 7:30 p.m. for the annual re-enactment. In addition, Franklin Street from 2nd Street to 11th Street in downtown Watkins Glen will be closed from around noon until 8 p.m. for festival activities.
Event organizers also note that various tours of the original race circuit will run between 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Drivers are urged to use caution when traveling in the area during this time.
Architect and Porsche collector Steven Harris has been named the Grand Marshal for this year’s celebration of road racing history The Grand Prix Festival will feature Porsche as the honored marque, and Harris will preside over hundreds of Porsches and their owners filling the village streets!
Harris, a professor at Yale School of Architecture for over 25 years and founding partner of Steven Harris Architects, is internationally recognized for his modernist design work across residential, industrial, and commercial spaces. His portfolio includes iconic luxury projects for Barneys New York and Dolce & Gabbana, with work spanning the U.S. and abroad.
Beyond architecture, Harris is known for his deep passion for Porsche automobiles, especially the Four Cam 356 Carreras and 911 RS models. His collection and curation of these classic machines have garnered attention throughout the automotive community, most recently with his celebrated lineup of 911 RS’s on display at Lime Rock Park.
“Steven Harris embodies the spirit of innovation, craftsmanship, and passion that defines both great architecture and great automotive design,” said Stacy Husted, Chair of the Grand Prix Festival. “We are thrilled to have him serve as Grand Marshal during a year that celebrates Porsche’s legendary contribution to motorsports.”
The 2026 Grand Prix Festival, a Watkins Glen Promotions event and proudly sponsored by Chemung Canal Trust Company, runs from 10am to 8pm and transforms the village of Watkins Glen into a haven for motorsport lovers and families alike. The day features:
Over 650 sports cars on display throughout the streets
Live music, food and craft vendors, and Porsche-centered exhibitions
Laps of the original 6.6-mile Grand Prix Circuit through village streets and surrounding countryside
The Watkins Glen International Grand Prix Tribute, where vintage race cars line North Franklin Street before roaring off to the track
Admission to the festival is free, and visitors from across the country are invited to join in this unforgettable celebration of racing heritage, design excellence, and community pride.
For more information, visit grandprixfestival.com
