For Jennifer Query, the roar of the engines at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway isn’t just a sound; it’s the soundtrack of her life. Growing up in a family of Indy 500 enthusiasts, she spent every May either in turn four or glued to the radio broadcast. That lifelong connection eventually [...]

Fifty Mini-Marathons. Seventy Parades. Thousands of moments and memories in between.  The 500 Festival 2026 season is shaping up to be one for the history books, and it all begins with a calendar of events that has brought generations together in Indianapolis.  As we race toward the Month of May, we’re taking time to reflect on how we got [...]

There’s something about the feeling of May in Indianapolis. The air buzzes. The city comes alive. The celebrations have really begun. We all don’t just experience it; we live and breathe it.  From the moment the first runners toed the line at the sold-out Indy Mini, it was clear: this [...]

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 [...]

The 500 Festival is gearing up for an unforgettable 2025! This year’s calendar is jam-packed with exciting events that bring together thousands of people from Indiana and around the globe. Whether you're a long-time 500 Festival fan or a first-time participant, there’s something for everyone. From running events to free [...]

The Magic of May  |  The Illumination of Indianapolis We wanted to shine a light on this city in the month of May, and we did. The illumination began with a flip. Not the flip of a switch, but the flip of a bike.  This is the story of May [...]

Month of May schedule of events Indianapolis is all about finishing first, and the arrival of May is the green flag for all events that lead to The Greatest Spectacle in Racing. In May, we start a month-long celebration of the Indianapolis 500. From the 500 Festival Kickoff to May [...]

500 Festival Staff members Travel to New Orleans Event to Gather Ideas for May in Indy By Sara Adams (Event & Program Manager) The Special Event Show was a dream to experience! It was a dedicated time for event professionals of all facets to join together to share, learn and [...]

5 months until the magic of May It's officially five months until May 2018 and there's plenty to get excited for this time around. Here's a look at five reasons to start getting excited for the Month of May. 5. musical guest No announcement has been made, but the 500 [...]