INDIANAPOLIS (February 28, 2025) – The 500 Festival and STAR Financial Bank are excited to announce the launch of the 2025 Kickoff to May Contest, giving Hoosiers ages 18 and older the chance to win an exclusive Month of May prize pack. To enter, participants write a short story sharing their favorite May memories, whether from 500 Festival events or traditions linked to the Indianapolis 500 race. This contest ties into this year’s 500 Festival theme, ‘Connected through May,’ celebrating the special connections the community shares during this iconic time of the year. 

Kickoff to May Fan Package Includes: 

• STAR Raceday YETI Cooler (24 Hard Cooler with Strap) 

• 20 oz. Raceday YETI Tumbler 

• Four (4) VIP tickets to the AES 500 Festival Parade on May 24, with parking pass 

• VIP parade brunch at STAR Bank prior to the AES 500 Festival Parade on May 24 

• 500 Festival and STAR Raceday swag 

How to Enter: 

Entries are accepted through March 31 at starfinancial.com/connected-through-may, where you can also find the full contest rules. The winner will be selected and announced at the Kickoff to May event on Wednesday, April 30. Eligibility and selection are subject to meeting all outlined contest requirements and conditions. For contest questions, please email marketing@starfinancial.com. 

“STAR Bank is honored to enter our 4th year as the title sponsor of the 500 Festival Kickoff to May,” said Scott Bove, SVP and Regional President of STAR Bank. “The sights and sounds of 33 pace cars, 500 Festival Princesses, Mayor Hogsett, Doug Boles, Bob Bryant, and the several other community leaders on Monument Circle bring excitement to usher in the 109th running of the Indianapolis 500.” 

Celebrate at Kickoff to May! 

The Kickoff to May event is free and open to the public on April 30 from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Monument Circle in downtown Indianapolis. Join us as we announce the contest winner and celebrate the excitement of May! 

“We’re thrilled to launch this contest and give Hoosiers a chance to share their favorite May memories,” said Bob Bryant, President and CEO of the 500 Festival. “The Month of May creates a sense of community and connection, and we’re excited to honor those who continue to uphold the traditions that make this time of year so special.” 

To learn more about the 500 Festival Kickoff to May, presented by STAR Bank, visit 500Festival.com/Kickoff.