<p>ELKHART, Ind. — A northern Indiana city is bringing back a summer festival built around go-kart racing a year after the family-oriented event was canceled by the coronavirus pandemic.</p>
<p>Elkhart officials announced Wednesday that the Thor Industries Elkhart Riverwalk Grand Prix will return Aug. 13-14, with go-kart racing along city streets, live music, fireworks and other events.</p>
<p>The race will be hosted in collaboration with U.S. Auto Club Karting and will this year include a redeveloped park between the front stretch and the pit area, <a href="https://www.elkharttruth.com/hometown/grand-prix-set-to-return-in-august/article_c7128c72-2237-5ade-9760-a03f49e48a75.html">The Elkhart Truth</a> reported.</p>
<p>Mayor Rod Roberson said he and other city officials are “thrilled” by the race’s return after a pandemic time-out.</p>
<p>“As we come out of COVID, whatever this virus looks like in our community come August, we know USAC will ensure the Elkhart Grand Prix is a safe and enjoyable event for everyone," he said in a statement.</p>
<p>Former Mayor Tim Neese brought back the Grand Prix in 2017 after a two-decade hiatus. </p>
<p>This year’s event kicks off on Friday, Aug. 13, with practice, qualifying, and special events along with the first of two free nights of concerts on a new permanent concert stage. Practice and qualifying races will follow on Saturday, Aug. 14, before the Thor Industries celebrity races open the racing.</p>
<p>That will be followed by the USAC Karting feature events, followed by more free concerts and a closing fireworks show after the final checkered flag.</p>
