Submitted by IMS
May is community, and nothing brings people together like the stunning art and fan-friendly events that signal “This is May” throughout Central Indiana.
Whether a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, everyone across Central Indiana and beyond is United in Racing this May. There’s no better way to celebrate the countdown to the 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on Sunday, May 24 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Many community activations are celebrating their 10th anniversary this year. Started to honor the 100th Running of the Indianapolis 500 in 2016, these initiatives continue to unite communities throughout the state.
Porch Parties are an incredibly popular part of the Indy 500 celebration and serve as a great example of the community spirit Central Indiana has for the Month of May.
Race fans are encouraged to host racing-themed gatherings to show off their decorated spaces, including balconies, garages, bars or anywhere family and friends gather to celebrate “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.”
Nearby Coca-Cola Indy 500 Porch Parties are scheduled at:
- Ale Emporium sponsored by Molson Coors – 5-7 p.m. ET Thursday, April 30 at 8617 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis
- Group 1001/Gainbridge with Andretti Global – 4-6 p.m. ET Tuesday, May 5 at 10555 Group Way, Zionsville
- Westfield Farmer’s Market – 5-8 p.m. ET Wednesday, May 13 at 225 S. Union St., Westfield
The best-decorated fan Porch Parties will be chosen and awarded with prize packs and visits from drivers and other special guests. The top three winning homes will be featured on the IMS website and social media channels. To participate, register your porch party by 7 p.m. ET Sunday, May 17 at ims.com/porching.
Additional décor includes the latest collection of Welcome Race Fans art. In collaboration with the Indy Arts Council, the artwork of Kirsten Anderson, Jonathan E. Carr, Kylene Dolen, Kenyon Mason and Philip Ramilo will be unveiled at the Harrison Center Coca-Cola Indy 500 Porch Party on May 1. Following the unveil, the artwork will be installed at locations throughout Indianapolis. Look for the art, snap a photo and share it on your social media pages with #WelcomeRaceFans to help welcome fans to Indy. Learn more about the program here.
Race fans also are encouraged to dress themselves in their best and most festive “500” items every Friday in May. 500 Fashion Fridays is a creative and unique outlet for fans to show their Indy 500 pride and excitement for the race. Be sure to share #500FashionFridays photos!
IMS is working with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana to support the “500 Bigs by the Indy 500” recruitment campaign. To learn more about BBBSCI and how to get involved, visit www.bebigforkids.org/500by500/.
For the fifth year in a row, IMS will host a naturalization ceremony. On Tuesday, May 12, which is also opening day of practice for the Indianapolis 500, 33 individuals from around the world will be inducted as United States citizens at the Racing Capital of the World. The event will be held in Pagoda Plaza and is open to the public for those attending practice.
The BODYARMR Flash I.V. Bike to the 500 presented by Central Indiana Cycling continues this year with two departure times, allowing the most loyal fans to arrive in time for pre-race ceremonies. With parking sold out for Race Day, Bike to the 500 offers fans a safe, environmentally friendly and healthy commute to the Speedway on Indy 500 Race Day. The Race Day commute will begin at the AMP at 16 Tech, and hundreds of bikers will depart that morning for the track. To secure a spot in line on Race Day, cyclists must register in advance here.
All 33 drivers will participate in Community Day presented by Gallagher by visiting students at schools throughout Indianapolis. The drivers will engage with students through hands-on STEM activities designed to introduce the magic of the Indianapolis 500 to new fans.
To explore the full list of Indy 500 community initiatives and programs, visit IMS.com/Community. To see an up-to-date calendar of events IMS will have a presence at this May, click here.
