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Ways to Celebrate the Indy 500 all over Indy

A trip to Indianapolis Motor Speedway may not be in the cards this year and that’s okay— or maybe you’re just looking for some different activities and events that will help bring the magic of May to you right here in Indiana! 


Local Events happening around Indianapolis: 


  • Zoopolis 500: The Indianapolis children’s zoo features tortoise racing and that's fun for the whole family. This event is also included in your normal zoo admission. 

When: May 22, 2024 10am-12pm. 

Where: Bicentennial Pavilion - Indianapolis Children's Zoo 


  • 500 Festival Parade: Mark your calendars for this one because it was one of the most amazing parades you will ever see and a great way to celebrate the month of May with your family! Find all of the information you need about the 500 parade here. 

When: May 25, 2024 Festivities start at 11:45 and the parade starts at noon. 

Where: Downtown Indianapolis - check the link for the full parade route. 



  • Legends Day Concert: Country music star Riley Green is headlining the  Firestone Legends Day concert this year! The celebration of “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” expands into downtown Indianapolis with the concert held the night before the 108th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge. Tickets are required. 

When: May 25th 2024 7pm. 

Where: White River State Park 


  • Rockin’ On Main: Fast Friday at Indianapolis Motor Speedway doesn’t have to end at the track. The town of Speedway is hosting a race inspired and music infused rockin event on Main street. You will find local artists featuring original artwork, boutique vendors offering a variety of racing-themed (and non-racing) merchandise, area crafters with their handmade crafts, and lots of good eats & drinks! Check out parking info here. 

When: May 24th 5pm-10pm. 

Where: Main Street in Speedway, IN 


Find a Fun Photo Op: 


  • Children's Museum: The Children’s Museum has a few awesome areas that help share a glimpse into the magic of May and the greatest spectacle in racing. Right off the elevators on the third floor sits an Indy car your kiddos can grab a photo inside of. Next, you can head out to the Sports Legends area outside and race around a track in a pedal “Indy Car”. Don’t forget to snap a photo in front of their mini pagoda as well. 


  • Downtown Indy: As you drive in from the south side, you can see the JW Marriot wallpapered for the Indy 500 as well as different streets that have been renamed for the drivers racing in the up-coming Indy 500. 


  • Indianapolis Airport: If you’re out by the airport or stopping in for an upcoming flight, you definitely should check out their spilled milk sculpture as well as the Indy car that is on display. 


Ideas at Home:

  • Host A Porch Party or Indy 500 Watch Event: Getting together with friends and family for the greatest spectacle in racing is what it’s all about! Decorate your porch with fun checkered flags. (I found some at our local Kroger or you can even buy packs on Amazon.) Make a fun racing theme dress code, add in some crafts and racing theme games for the kids, and have fun with it! Check out more about porch party activities here! 



The Month of May in Indy is a special and full of magic, so enjoy it with friends and family while it's here!






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