NASCAR Hall of Fame turns 1 year old

Wednesday will mark one year since the $160 million facility opened its doors to auto racing fans.

How will it celebrate its first anniversary?

According to a NASCAR Hall of Fame press release, it "will focus on the local and regional community. Highlights include a visit from Metro School students, special one-day admission price of $5.11 and donations to the Red Cross for tornado victims."

That's a particularly good deal on the ticket price -- one-day general admission tickets are normally $19.95 for adults and $12.95 for kids. $1 from every $5.11 admission will go directly to the Red Cross to fund tornado relief efforts.

Also: Shortly after 10 a.m. Wednesday, in the Great Hall, various executives and board members will serve birthday cake to students from neighboring Metro School, a Charlotte school that serves about 200 students whom are significantly disabled.

Several other special events are planned for the month of May at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Here are just a few:

Monday, May 16

NASCAR Performance Taping: See Chad Knaus, Larry McReynolds, Bootie Barker and a chance to be on SPEED. Approximately 2-5 p.m. in the Great Hall. Free with general admission or membership.

Wednesday, May 18

Induction Dinner: Featuring the 2011 Inductees. 6 p.m. reception, 7 p.m. dinner in the Crown Ballroom. $500 per person; table packages also available (ticket sales end May 13).

Wednesday, May 18

NASCAR Rev’d Up: 4 p.m. festival begins, 7:15 p.m. Josh Kelley performs, 8:45 p.m. Gary Allan performs, all on the Outdoor Plaza. Free.

Thursday, May 19

Bobby Labonte Appearance: Q&A and autograph session with the 2000 NASCAR Winston Cup champion. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Great Hall. Free with general admission or membership.

For a full list of events, click here.