Education
500 Festival
Education Program
Looking to bring Indiana history and hands-on STEM learning to life for your students? The 500 Festival & Indianapolis 500 Education Program, presented by Riley Children’s Health, is a FREE Indiana Academic Standards–based curriculum designed exclusively for Indiana 4th-grade classrooms and schools. The program explores the history, culture, and science behind the Indy 500 and offers two flexible, interactive field trip options:
- Study Trip at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway: Bring your classroom directly to the famous track in April for interactive, hands-on learning stations placed around the venue. (Free of charge, with transportation stipends provided.)
- Mobile Trip: Can’t make it to the track? The 500 Festival brings the field trip directly to your school in March, complete with interactive learning stations, race equipment, and a real IndyCar!
Timeline & Eligibility: The program is open exclusively to Indiana 4th-grade educators. Program registration opens in the fall for the upcoming spring semester. Schools must be registered for the Education Program to participate in either type of trip.
KidsFit Program
The 500 Festival KidsFit Program is a FREE, customizable program for Indiana students in grades K–6, focused on building healthy habits.
Through weekly Indy 500-themed lessons and the Start Your Engines Running Plan, participants work toward completing 13.1 total miles — the equivalent of a half marathon! Lessons align directly with the Indiana Department of Education Academic Standards for Health and Physical Education.
Choose Your Finale Event: Groups celebrate their final miles either in Downtown Indy at the KidsFit Final 5K (featuring official shirts, finisher medals, cheering fans, and post-race snacks) or the 500 Festival brings a Mobile Run to your school or building — bringing the start line, finish line, and celebration directly to you at no cost!
Timeline & Eligibility: Open to all Indiana schools, classrooms, and youth organizations (Grades K–6). Registration opens in the fall for the spring semester.
Princess Program
The 500 Festival Princess Program, presented by The National Bank of Indianapolis, highlights leadership, academic achievement, and community service among college-aged women in Indiana. Each year, 33 women are chosen to serve as ambassadors for the 500 Festival and the Indianapolis 500.
Princesses participate in events across the state, visit local schools, and receive professional development alongside a scholarship and a behind-the-scenes experience during the month of May.
Timeline & Eligibility: Applications open in the fall for the spring program. Click here for full eligibility requirements.