INDIANAPOLIS (May 6, 2026) – The 500 Festival announces internationally acclaimed vocalist Loren Allred and rising star Ephraim Owens as featured performers in the opening production of the 2026 Lucas Oil 500 Festival Parade. Allred will deliver the national anthem, while Owens brings a dynamic cover of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’,” creating a high-energy start to one of Indianapolis’ most celebrated traditions. Together with a patriotic performance by the Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, the opening production sets the tone for a classic all-American kickoff to Memorial Day weekend. 

Tickets are on sale starting at $25 and can be purchased online at 500festival.com/tickets. Proceeds from all 500 Festival ticketed events help support the organization’s free programming and events for Indiana youth and college students. 

Loren Allred is best known for her powerhouse vocals on the song “Never Enough” from the hit film “The Greatest Showman.” Her performance became a global sensation, showcasing her extraordinary vocal range and emotional delivery, and has since earned hundreds of millions of streams worldwide. Allred has gone on to perform internationally and has been recognized for her ability to deliver show-stopping performances on some of the world’s biggest stages.  

Ephraim Owens rose to national attention as a standout contestant on The Voice, where he competed in Season 24. Known for his soulful tone, Owens quickly became a fan favorite, earning praise from coaches for his versatility and emotional connection to each performance. He will headline this year’s opening production, bringing that same energy and vocal talent to downtown Indianapolis. Joining him will be the Indianapolis Colts Cheerleaders and Indiana Pacemates, helping kick off parade day with excitement and momentum.  

The Parade will take place on Saturday, May 23, in downtown Indianapolis, with festivities beginning at 11:45 a.m. This race-weekend tradition features spectacular floats, larger-than-life balloons, 13 marching bands from across the country, celebrities, everyday heroes, and the 33 INDYCAR drivers who will compete in the Indianapolis 500 the following day. 

The Lucas Oil 500 Festival Parade will be televised live locally on WTHR, Channel 13. 

Support of the Lucas Oil 500 Festival Parade is provided by: Lucas Oil, AES Indiana, American Dairy Association of Indiana, Central Indiana Chevy Dealers, Discovering Broadway, Eli Lilly, Franciscan Health, Indianapolis Colts, Indianapolis Indians, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Indianapolis Public Library, IU Simon End Lung Cancer Now, KSM CPAs & Advisors, Meijer, OneAmerica Financial, Purdue University, Regions Bank, Republic Airways, Shell Starship, Sullivan Hardware & Garden, and WTHR-13. 

About the 500 Festival | Founded in 1957, the 500 Festival is a not-for-profit organization that produces more than 50 life-enriching events and programs that celebrate the spirit and legacy of the Indianapolis 500 and foster a positive impact on the city of Indianapolis and state of Indiana. One of the largest festivals in the nation, each year more than half a million people attend an event or program produced by the 500 Festival. Since its founding, the 500 Festival has contributed more than $500 million in economic value to Indianapolis. To learn more about the 500 Festival, please visit 500festival.com, follow us on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.  

About Lucas Oil | Lucas Oil sets the standard in engine oils, additives, and lubricants, serving diverse marketings from automotive and trucking to marine and industrial. Known for high-performance solutions, Lucas Oil delivers products that boost fuel economy, power, and engine life for all users, from professional racers to every day drivers. Headquartered in Indianapolis, the company has spent nearly four decades advancing R&D and performance testing, collaborating with top racing teams, and expanding its unmatched variety and quality of products worldwide with more than 300 premium products available in 48 countries and at major retailers. Visit LucasOil.com for more.