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 community activities and family-friendly fun, 2025 promises to be a year to remember!   

Click here to view our full calendar of events and save the dates.  

A few key events to look forward to: 

• IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon & Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K: Lace up your running shoes and be part of Indy Mini Weekend on May 3. Take part in one of the largest and most iconic half-marathons that starts in downtown Indy and includes a 2.5-mile lap around the infamous Indianapolis Motor Speedway. If you’re looking for a shorter challenge, the 5K is a perfect option! 

• Salesforce & JPMorganChase 500 Festival Kids’ Day & Rookie Run: On May 10, Monument Circle turns into Indiana’s largest free outdoor celebration designed exclusively for kids! The event is full of interactive, educational displays in a carnival atmosphere – giving children a full day of fun, learning, and activity. Have a young runner in your family? Watch youth take part in the Rookie Run, a non-competitive fun run for children ages 3 – 10. It’s a 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. 

• American Legion 500 Festival Memorial Service: Join us on May 23 for a wreath-laying ceremony, dedicated to the memory of all Hoosiers who sacrificed their lives in defense of the nation in all wars and conflicts. The names of those Indiana service members who have fallen in the theatre of war within the past year will be read aloud and the bell of the USS Indianapolis CA-35 will toll in their honor. 

• AES 500 Festival Parade: Over 200,000 spectators will line the streets of downtown Indianapolis on May 24 to witness extravagant floats, enormous balloons, renowned figures, esteemed guests, top-notch marching bands, and all 33 Indy 500 drivers in action. 

We’re still keeping a few surprises up our sleeves! The annual theme for the 2025 season will be revealed soon, and it’s going to set the tone for a year of celebration, community, and connection. Stay tuned for the big announcement in early February!