Race day in the wine country for the Toyota/Save Mart 350

NAPA, Calif. (KTVU) - The roar of NASCAR engines and the cheers of pumped up racing fans are filling the wine country on Sunday.

NASCAR is holding one of its rare road course events for the Toyota/Save Mart 350.

This year's competition has added significance, as "The Carousel" is being brought back.

The original 12-turn, 2.52-mile road course is being used, as part of Sonoma Raceway's yearlong 50th anniversary celebration.

Sonoma Raceway officials said the full track layout was originally unveiled when the facility opened in 1968, and incorporates the raceway's signature sweeping downhill corner affectionately nicknamed "The Carousel."

This is the 31st year a NASCAR Cup Series event is being competed 

Let's take a lap at @RaceSonoma! 🙌

Ride along with @MartinTruex_Jr as he takes you around the new layout for today's #TSM350! pic.twitter.com/JlgwUUIdsC

— #NASCARSalutes (@NASCAR) June 23, 2019

Gates at the raceway opened at 7 a.m. Sunday, with the green flag dropping at noon.

As usual, fans heading to the raceway are encountering gridlock. Both Highways 121 and 37 are expected to be congested throughout the day.<

KTVU's Elissa Harrington reported from the garage area, where racing teams were preparing for the big race, while fans had a chance to check out the cars and see some of NASCAR's top drivers.