INDIANAPOLIS (April 21, 2026) –  A group of former Anderson University cross country runners are bringing a mix of speed, creativity, and a sense of humor to the 50th Running of the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, where they’ll attempt to break a Guinness World Records title for the Fastest [...]

INDIANAPOLIS (Feb 4, 2026) – Registration is now open for Course Entertainment groups to apply to volunteer as performers at the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. Selected groups will inspire and energize over 20,000+ participants along the 13.1-mile course. Musicians, dance groups, bands, and family-friendly entertainers of all genres are [...]

INDIANAPOLIS (January 6, 2026) -  The 500 Festival announces “Racing Through History” as their 2026 annual theme, which will be the focus for the 500 Festival Parade. “Racing Through History” celebrates the legacy, milestones, and meaningful moments that have shaped the 500 Festival into one of Indiana’s most cherished traditions. In 2026, the 500 Festival proudly honors two landmark anniversaries, the 50th running of the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon and [...]

INDIANAPOLIS (December 15, 2025) – The 500 Festival has appointed Dave Neff as its new President and CEO, marking an exciting milestone for the organization as it continues to elevate its programs and events that positively impact communities across Indiana and celebrate the Indianapolis 500.   Neff will officially begin his role on January [...]

INDIANAPOLIS (September 22, 2025) – The 500 Festival has announced the elected officers for its 2025-2026 500 Festival Board of Directors and welcomed six new civic and business leaders to the board. Additionally, new officers have been appointed to the 500 Festival Foundation Board of Directors, which advances the Festival’s mission through [...]

INDIANAPOLIS (September 9, 2025) – The 500 Festival announced today that President and CEO, Bob Bryant, will be retiring from his position effective January 9, 2026. A search committee made up of directors from both the 500 Festival and 500 Festival Foundation boards has been established to lead the process of [...]

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 [...]

INDIANAPOLIS (August 1, 2025) – As the 50th Running of the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon approaches on May 2, 2026, the 500 Festival invites you to make your race day even more meaningful by joining one of three special Mini-Marathon challenges — now open for registration.  These unique opportunities [...]

INDIANAPOLIS (May 27, 2025) – The 500 Festival announces the winners of its essay contest and best classroom contest for the 2025 500 Festival & Indianapolis 500 Education Program, presented by Indiana University Health. This year, 27,256 Indiana fourth-grade students took part in the Education Program.   The Education Program is [...]