Every year, the Indianapolis 500 transforms Indy into the epicenter of speed, tradition, and energy. The race draws over 300,000 fans from across the globe, making it the largest single-day sporting event on the planet. But the real magic? It’s the lead-up. Locals know the entire Month of May is basically a holiday. In May, Indianapolis is packed with concerts, parades, family fun and a whole lot of horsepower. 🏎️
To ensure that you get the most out of your May, here’s your guide to the events that make this time of year so iconic:
WEEK 1: May 1–4
🏁 May 1 – Indy 500 Fan Fest at Bottleworks
Kick things off at Bottleworks with food, music, driver appearances and even a close-up look at the Borg-Warner Trophy.
Bonus: it’s totally free and open to all ages.
🔥 May 2–3 – Cleetus & Cars + the Indy 800
Expect monster trucks, drag racing, and burnout competitions at Lucas Oil Raceway. This adrenaline-filled weekend is hosted by YouTuber Cleetus McFarland and is a wild ride from start to finish.
🍽️ May 3 – Rev at the Speedway
One of the most glamorous nights of the year, Rev combines fine dining and dancing with a fundraising mission, all on the famous Yard of Bricks. Tickets sell out fast for this one (and yep, they’re already gone for 2025!).
👟 May 3 – Mini-Marathon + 5K
Lace up for one of the largest half-marathons in the country! Bonus points: both races run you right through IMS. The 5K offers a shorter loop but the same big-race feel.
WEEK 2: May 5–11
🏎️ May 9–10 – Sonsio Grand Prix at IMS
Watch top drivers take on the 14-turn road course inside IMS. Practice and qualifying happen on Friday, with the race set for Saturday.
🎈 May 10 – Kids’ Day + Rookie Run
Monument Circle transforms into a carnival of games, crafts and STEM fun. Kids can even race like the pros in the Rookie Run for ages 3–10 (complete with bibs and medals)!
🚲 May 11 – Indy Pride Hoosier 250
Sun King Downtown plays host to this spirited tricycle race and community celebration. Free to attend, full of joy and will 100% be a good time!
WEEK 3: May 12–18
🧑🔧 May 13–16 + May 19 – Indy 500 Practice
Drivers hit the track to dial in their cars. Practices are open to the public and a great way to get up close without the Race Day crowd.
🥞 May 17 – Breakfast at the Brickyard
A mix of tradition and Hoosier hospitality. Enjoy breakfast, meet community leaders and take a lap around the track in your own car. (Already sold out—but worth adding to your 2026 list!)
🎖️ May 17–18 – Armed Forces Qualifying Weekend
Feel the intensity as drivers race at over 230 mph to earn their shot at Race Day glory. It’s edge-of-your-seat action.
WEEK 4: May 19–24
🍔 May 19 – Burger Bash (Delivered by ClusterTruck)
Fuel up with burgers, driver appearances and a live taping of Trackside with Kevin Lee and Curt Cavin. All happening just outside Gate 1 at IMS.
🇺🇸 May 23 – The American Legion Memorial Service
A moving tribute to honor our nation’s fallen heroes. This long-standing Indy 500 tradition is a powerful pause in a month full of celebration.
🎸 May 23 – Miller Lite Carb Day
Final practice + a full-blown concert = the unofficial start of race weekend. Bret Michaels and The All-American Rejects are this year’s headliners.
🎉 May 24 – AES 500 Festival Parade
One of the biggest parades in the country! Catch the 33 drivers, giant balloons and community performances in this can’t-miss spectacle.
🏁 May 24 – Legends Day at IMS
Collect autographs, attend the public drivers’ meeting and celebrate the legends of racing. Plus, snag a seat at the Legends Day Concert at White River State Park, Midland headlines this year!
RACE DAY: Sunday, May 25
🚴♀️ Bike to the 500
Skip traffic and roll straight into the action with a police-escorted bike ride to IMS. Secure bike parking included. Just don’t forget your race ticket!
🎶 Snake Pit
If you like your race day with a side of EDM, the Coors Light Snake Pit is your scene. This year’s lineup includes Illenium, Two Friends, Kayzo, and more. (Must have a Race Day ticket to enter.)
🏎️ The 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500
