#500ROOKIERUN

500 Festival Rookie Run

Presented by Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital

MAY 9, 2026 | 11:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M.

Youngsters Take Over Downtown Indy!

Indiana’s youngest runners are hitting the street during the 500 Festival Rookie Run, presented by Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital. This non-competitive fun run allows children ages 3 – 10 the fun opportunity to get active and experience the excitement of a running event, complete with a start and finish line production, cheering section, participant bib, and finisher medal.

The Rookie Run will take place at Kids’ Day, Indiana’s largest free outdoor festival for kids! The JPMorganChase 500 Festival Kids’ Day attracts thousands to Monument Circle on May 9, featuring over 40 exhibitors and tons of fun, educational and interactive activities.

registration

Online registration is now closed.

Race-day registration will also be available at the Rookie Run Registration Zone from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. In-person registration costs $5, with an option to purchase a participant t-shirt for an additional $5 while supplies last.

The Race Details

The Rookie Run takes place in the heart of downtown Indianapolis, just one block north of Monument Circle at the intersection of Ohio and Meridian streets. Race distances are set based upon a child’s age and races will be run in a series of heats to ensure a safe race experience.

Race Schedule

  • Age 3: 2-block course – 11:30 am

  • Age 4: 2-block course – 12:00 pm
  • Ages 5-6: 1/5-mile course – 12:30 pm
  • Ages 7-8: 1/3-mile course – 1:00 pm
  • Ages 9-10: 1/3-mile course – 1:30 pm

Times are approximate and subject to change.

Join The Kids’ Day Fun!

The Rookie Run takes place at Kids’ Day, Indiana’s largest outdoor festival for kids. Kids’ Day is an Indy 500 celebration that’s sized for kids. With interactive, educational displays in a carnival-like atmosphere, Kids’ Day gives children the opportunity to stretch their minds and their muscles. Join us for a free day of play at Kids’ Day!

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS