Car aficionados and race fans can see nearly 300 historic sports cars this weekend, including many that will take to the race track at Sonoma Raceway.

But don’t expect the same bumping and shoving that goes on at typical races on the technically challenging road course. The real purpose of the event is to raise money for the Sonoma chapter of Speedway Children’s Charities.

The Classic Sports Racing Group Charity Challenge, now in its 11th year, has raised more than $600,000 for children’s causes, said Diana Brennan, Sonoma Raceway senior director of media and community relations.

The Sonoma chapter of SCC, the charitable arm of Sonoma Raceway, is dedicated to raising money for Sonoma County youth organizations, Brennan said. SCC has distributed more than $4.3 million since 2001.

Among the charitable events both on and off the track are track rides and a race-themed raffle, she said.

“Fans can enjoy a thrilling, three-lap ride around the road course in one of 30 participating race cars during the Charity Track Rides Saturday and Sunday,” she said.

Tickets to ride range from $75 to $500, depending on the car, she said.

Signups for the midday rides start at 9 a.m. each day, and Brennan said they sell out quickly.

“So arrive at the track early to reserve your spot,” she said. Pace car rides and checkered flag waving opportunities are also available.

Fans also can buy tickets to drawings with race-themed prizes, including 2015 Sonoma Raceway season passes and a fire suit from veteran Formula One racer Rubens Barrichello.

Drawings also will be made for wine gift sets, Wine Country package trips and other prizes.

Tickets are $10 each, $25 for 3 and $50 for a “stretch,” Brennan said. As with other ticket sales, proceeds go to Sonoma’s Children’s Charities.

“The Charity Challenge is a great family event,” Brennan said. “Stroll the paddock to see the cars up close and chat with the drivers.”

Then there’s the racing.

“The CSRG Charity Challenge is a celebration of historic car racing, featuring road-racing cars spanning Formula 1, prototype sports cars and production sports cars, principally from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s, as well as some gems from the ’30s,” Brennan said.

“In addition, the premier historic F1 racing organization, Masters HGP, will join the event with more than 20 Formula 1 cars from the ’60s to the early ’80s.”

The event will feature nine race groups, with qualifying and races Saturday and Sunday slated for the 12-turn, 2.52-mile road course.

Those attending will find plenty of food choices at the track, from the Taqueria and the Sears Point Grill that serves burgers, sausages and other selections to the special menu at The Raceway Café, Brennan said. The track also will sell a variety of local craft beers and Sonoma Valley wines, she said.

Admission is $25 a day or $40 for both Saturday and Sunday. Admission covers entry to all spectator areas, paddock access and parking. Youth through college age are admitted free with student ID, as are active and veteran military members, Brennan said. Tickets can be purchased at the gate.

Those interested in the Classic Sports Racing Group may learn more at the website www.csrgracing.org or CSRG’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/csrgracing.

Sonoma Raceway is at 29355 Arnold Drive, Sonoma.