Each year, the 500 Festival creates community events in Indianapolis that bring people together to enjoy and celebrate the distinct moments that make the Month of May an iconic time in Indiana. This year’s theme, “Connected Through May,” celebrates these very moments that bring us together and the people who make it all possible. From fitness and education to community engagement, the 500 Festival creates opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds to unite in the spirit and Hoosier hospitality. In partnership with local organizations and volunteers, we’re honoring the moments – big and small – and the shared pride, excitement and connection that make May a truly special time for Indianapolis and beyond.  

“Connected Through May” is a reflection of who the Festival is, and who we have been since our first Parade in 1957. What started with four businessmen who wanted to bring the city together through a shared celebration has grown into one of the third-largest Festivals in the nation.  

“Connected Through May is about the people – the volunteers, the partners, the participants, the supporters, the community, and the fans that show up every year,” said Lindsay Labas, the VP of Marketing and Communications at the 500 Festival. “The Festival brings people together in unique and fun ways, and this theme is our way of honoring those shared connections that make up the magic of May.” 

Connecting Our Programs + Events to Hoosiers 

From economic to educational impact, the 500 Festival strives to positively affect Hoosiers from all over the state with its events and programs. Whether it’s the exhilaration of crossing the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon finish line, to witnessing a child’s excitement at their first Salesforce & JPMorganChase 500 Festival Kids’ Day, to seeing your favorite INDYCAR driver go by at the AES 500 Festival Parade, the Festival is there every step of the way ensuring each May is as unforgettable as the last.  

The IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon and Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K draw runners and walkers from across the globe to the race that continues to win the title of USA TODAY’s 10Best Half Marathon Across the Nation. With over 20,000 participants, ranging in age, gender, and ability, this event generates significant economic benefits to Indianapolis and encourages visitors to make a yearly stop in the Hoosier capital. This one-of-a-kind race day experience brings local businesses, volunteers, active individuals, and May enthusiasts together to celebrate the city and gear up for the excitement of the month.  

Because of all Indy Mini participants, over 28,000 fourth-grade students can take part in the 500 Festival’s Education Program – stats like this encourage Indy Mini participants to come back each year knowing they are making a difference in their community. This year, the Education Program has reached a new milestone, engaging more than 500,000 students across 17,000 classrooms since its start in 2003. Through this initiative, fourth graders gain valuable knowledge about the 500 Festival and the historical and cultural significance of the Indianapolis 500 in Indiana’s heritage.  

The 500 Festival has always made youth a priority when creating a lasting impact on the community. From thousands of kids enjoying a free day of fun at Salesforce & JPMorganChase 500 Festival Kids’ Day, to crossing the finish line with the KidsFit program, to over 800 kids annually running and experiencing their first race at the Rookie Run – it’s all about inspiring the next generation. 

Without our volunteers, our events and programs would not have the same level of impact as they do today. The more than 2,500 volunteers who fill over 1,000 roles at our events are the unsung heroes, infusing energy and excitement into every 500 Festival event and program. From distributing snacks and beverages at the Mini-Marathon finish line, to educating 4th graders about our rich Hoosier history, and guiding attendees to their seats during the AES 500 Festival Parade, our volunteers are nothing short of miracle workers.  

As we move toward May and beyond, the theme “Connected Through May” serves as a reminder of the bonds that are formed, the lives that are impacted, and the sense of unity that the Festival brings to Indy. It’s these connections that make us stronger as a city, state, and community.  

Don’t miss out on your chance to connect to your community! Be sure to keep up with all the excitement of May by following @500festival on Facebook and Instagram.