April 18 through 20, “Green” means more than just “Go!” when Shoreline Drive in downtown Long Beach transforms into the 200-mph front straightaway known as the 34th Annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach.  Though still the largest event in Long Beach, the premier circuit in the Champ World Series, and the longest running “street race” in all of North America, this year the Toyota Grand Prix debuts its greener side with an eco-conscious twist.

Green Power
American motorsports just took a giant leap into the future. The Toyota Grand Prix weekend will be the first major auto racing event to focus on innovations in alternative energy as they apply not only to everyday life, but to the world of fast cars too.  The new Green Power Prix-View and an expanded Lifestyle and Alternative Energy Expo features extensive displays of alternative energy vehicles, including on-circuit activities featuring everything from hybrids to bio-diesel to robotic vehicles.  Around the circuit, you’ll find special bins to collect recyclable materials and the Grand Prix will be recycling oil and petroleum waste from the race cars.  Think that’s green?  There’ll also be thousands of eco-savvy race fans shunning their own autos for the weekend to take advantage of Metrolink and Metro Blue Line, providing fast, convenient service right to the Grand Prix gates from virtually anywhere in SoCal.

Gentlemen, Start Your Engines
But not to worry.  Just because the Grand Prix has gone green, doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on a moment of your favorite action.  The thirty-fourth installment of the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach showcases six racing series: the Champ Car World Series, the 32nd Annual Toyota Pro/Celebrity Race and EZ Lube Team Drift Challenge, plus the Tequila Patrón American Le Mans Series race, Imperial Capital Bank Champ Car Atlantic Championship, and SPEED World Challenge.

Tecate Time
And the fan-favorite Tecate Light Cool Zone is back again, presenting its Fiesta Friday Concert (featuring Aleks Syntek) and Saturday night Rock-N-Roar Concert (featuring local SoCal punks Pennywise).  Plus, don’t forget to stick around for the Tecate Light Miss Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach Pageant.  Of course, all three Tecate Light Cool Zone events are free to race ticket holders.

Get Extreme
What’s more, you’ll get to try your hand at the freshest computer games.  Filled with simulators, race cars, a video arcade and more, the Lifestyle and Alternative Energy Expo’s Family Fun Zone is the perfect “pit stop” to relax and have some fun between races.  Want hot motorcycles?  High-flying bicycles?  And extreme skateboarding?  Visit the Expo Arena over and over again during the weekend to see the very best in action and extreme sports stars.

The 34th Annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach is located at 300 East Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach.  For more information, call 888-82-SPEED or check out www.gplb.com.  Wheelchair Accessible.