The Enjoy Illinois 300 returns to World Wide Technology Raceway Sept. 11–13, bringing NASCAR’s top drivers back to Madison for the fifth year. But the weekend has grown into more than a race. The Confluence Music Festival has become a cultural staple alongside the event, drawing thousands with a lineup that blends national acts and regional talent.
“On the fifth anniversary of Confluence Music Festival, we’re proud to continue the tradition of bringing exceptional live entertainment to this one-of-a-kind event,” said Kwofe Coleman, executive producer for the festival. “[The festival is] Creating a vibrant destination weekend with something for the whole family.” Coleman also is president and CEO of The Muny, which supports production of the festival.
This year’s headliners include hip-hop icon Busta Rhymes, whose decades-long career has influenced rap, fashion and stage performance. His Saturday set follows the Ying Yang Twins, whose Southern-rooted sound helped define early-2000s club culture.
St. Louis multi-instrumentalist Lamar Harris performs twice on Sunday — once before Dasha’s set and again ahead of Old Dominion’s post-race concert. Harris’ blend of jazz, soul and electronic production has made him a fixture in the region’s music scene. The roster also includes DJ Rashida, Monte Cristo, Malena Smith, Macalester Dose & The Rebels and the Saint Boogie Brass Band.
The festival is part of a broader effort to expand what race weekend means for St. Louis. Coleman said the festival’s growth shows how entertainment can reshape the fan experience.
“From the ‘Runway to Raceway’ kickoff on Friday to the finale concert, Confluence Music Festival is committed to connecting people through music, racing and culture,” Coleman said. “And we couldn’t do any of it without the support of Dave Steward, World Wide Technology, the Steward Family Foundation and our generous sponsors who continue to invest in this mission.”
The Enjoy Illinois Stage — located at Turn 4 — is open to all fans without an upgrade. Saturday’s hip-hop block begins at 4:30 p.m. with the Ying Yang Twins, followed by a special guest and Busta Rhymes’ headlining set. Sunday’s programming includes DJ Rashida + Monte Cristo and additional performances throughout the day.
The SIUE Main Stage hosts Sunday’s infield lineup. Fans with an Enterprise Infield Fan Zone upgrade can see Chris Janson’s prerace set, but the post-race concert — featuring Old Dominion with Lamar Harris and Dasha — is open to everyone. Harris’ presence on the main stage is just one example of the festival’s commitment to elevating St. Louis artists alongside national acts.
The U.S. Coast Guard Stage rounds out the weekend with performances from Malena Smith, Macalester Dose & The Rebels and the Saint Boogie Brass Band.
For race fans, the Enjoy Illinois 300 remains the centerpiece. But for many St. Louisans, Confluence has become an essential part of the weekend.
“It’s going to be quite a party,” Coleman said.
The 5th Annual Enjoy Illinois 300 and 3rd Annual Confluence Music Festival will take place Sept. 11–13, 2026, at World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Illinois. For full schedule, tickets and additional information, visit wwtraceway.com or call 618-215-8888.