A 500 Festival Feature

The 500 Festival boasts a group of event planners unlike any other in Indianapolis. While staff members manage some of the nation’s largest events, including a parade, a half marathon and much more, one individual has mastered the art of celebration. Her name is Sara Adams, and she’s the 500 Festival’s resident party planner.

In the spirit of the season, when holiday parties and New Year’s celebrations reign supreme, Sara finds herself in her element. With an unmatched eye for aesthetics, her unique expression and passion through event planning has earned her the right to manage some of the 500 Festival’s most elegant, lavish, and eclectic celebrations.

“It makes me happy to see other people happy,” Sara said. “I think that makes me a good match for any occasion to celebrate!”

Among the 500 Festival’s more than 50 events and programs, Sara is responsible for the KeyBank 500 Festival Snakepit Ball, the 500 Festival Post Race Party, the 500 Festival Breakfast at the Brickyard, presented by Midwestern Engineers, Inc., the Mini-Marathon Course Entertainment Program, Corporate Member celebrations and elegant Board dinners, to name just a few.

Where there’s food, drink, music and smiles in May, assume Sara played a part in making it happen.

“I am constantly challenged to make things that have been around for decades look new and shiny each year,” she said. “I have so much respect for the history our events have. I feel truly honored to be able to play a role in some of these events that have been around longer than I’ve been alive.”

Her understanding of the 500 Festival, its events, and what it means to the community stems from a history of her own in central Indiana. Sara grew up in Greenwood before attending IUPUI to study Tourism, Conventions, and Event Management, and minor in Spanish. She loves the city because of its busyness and excitement, but also the small town feel.

Sara also plans and coordinates weddings in her spare time and showcases her fun and creativity on Instagram. Her self-created hashtag #AdventuresoftheAdamsMinions chronicles the adventures of her and her husband Matt, and even shifts to #500FestivalMinion in the midst of event season. 

“I love alliteration and I thoroughly enjoy the Minions,” Sara said. “I’ve been using the hashtag since 2014 now. It’s fun to click on it and see the memories we make!”

“The Minions always mean well. They work hard, have hilarious mishaps, are eager and enthusiastic, protect the people they care about and look like fun to be around. I sort of relate to them I guess!”

You won’t catch Sara in overalls or speaking gibberish like one of her beloved Minions – she’s well-spoken and stylish – but you might catch her this May, taking on another adventure and bringing the magic to one of your favorite 500 Festival events.

Interested in learning more about the 500 Festival and the upcoming event schedule for spring 2018?

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