NORTH WILKESBORO — After more than 10 years, the historic North Wilkesboro Speedway will re-open with a bang Saturday, as the Flathead Fords rev up their engines and thousands of fans assemble for a look at a new feature film about the origins of stock car racing.

Born out of hauling moonshine on warm Carolina nights, the movie “Red Dirt Rising” features the kind of romance and daredevilin’ that made the Carolinas famous.

The gates open at noon and the speedway will have plenty of activities including picture cars from the movie, antique moonshine cars, plus plenty of cast and crew on hand to sign autographs alongside the drivers.

The world premiere is an all ages event that includes:

n The Buck Baker Driving School day program, which gives attendees the chance to drive on the historic North Wilkesboro track (www.BuckBaker.com)

n Cruise-In car event

n The legendary Flathead Ford Racing Association will re-open the track with its first 20-lap race

n Resilient Records artist Matt Dylan will perform a live concert

n In the evening, the track will transform into an outdoor theater for the world premiere of “Red Dirt Rising”

Tickets are available in advance at www.historicnws.com/tickets.

About the feature film

“Red Dirt Rising”

“Red Dirt Rising” is the true American tale of love in the time of moonshine, when racing’s earliest heroes were born. The story follows the lives of three young men who come of age to find escape from life’s challenges on the track, ultimately shaping the future of their families and stock car racing during the Fightin’ Forties. The film boasts a veteran cast and crew with extensive resumes in television and film.

A portion of all proceeds from “Red Dirt Rising” and its soundtrack are set to support the non-profit Racing Legends Medical Fund. Established in 1991, this hardship fund benefits past drivers, team owners and mechanics who qualify for assistance.

To learn more or gather clips, visit www.reddirtrising.com.