INDIANAPOLIS (September 2, 2025) – The 500 Festival KidsFit Program is now accepting registrations for the 2025-2026 school year. In its 12th year, this free, customizable program is offered to Indiana schools and groups serving grades K-6. Designed to help students build healthy, active lifestyles, KidsFit combines in-class lessons with running and walking activities. The curriculum also aligns with the Indiana Department of Education’s Indiana State Academic Standards for Health and Physical Education. 

KidsFit takes students on a journey that connects them with the excitement of the 500 Festival and the Indianapolis 500 with healthy habits. Using the “Start Your Engines” training plan, students complete one mile each week. By the end of the program, they’ll have logged 13.1 miles – the equivalent distance of a half marathon. 

To celebrate their accomplishments, students are invited to finish their final 3.1 miles in their own wave at the Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K on May 2, 2026, held the same morning as the 50th IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon in downtown Indianapolis. This milestone year gives students a chance to be part of history while soaking in the excitement of race day. Each student receives a discounted entry, T-shirt, finisher medal, post-race refreshments, and memories to last a lifetime. 

For schools unable to travel to Indianapolis, the 500 Festival brings the excitement directly to them through a KidsFit Mobile Run. Runs are free, on-site events that recreate the start line, finish line, and celebration right at their school. 

“KidsFit is about building confidence, creating lifelong healthy habits, and showing students the power of setting and achieving goals,” said Bob Bryant, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “Our hope is that every student finishes the program with a stronger appreciation for fitness, a sense of accomplishment that carries into all aspects of life, and a deeper connection to the 500 Festival and Indianapolis 500.” 

Interested teachers and group organizers should register their school or group at IndyMini.com/KidsFit. 

Support of the 500 Festival KidsFit Program is provided by: Elevance Health Foundation, Energy Harness, Indianapolis Colts, and the 500 Festival Foundation.