Carb Night Burger Bash to Celebrate 101st Running of the Indianapolis 500

Appearances by Verizon IndyCar Series drivers and Big Machine Records artist Trent Harmon highlight the return of the Steak ‘n Shake Carb Night Burger Bash, a signature Friday night celebration as part of Indianapolis 500 weekend festivities.

The free, family-oriented event on May 26 at Pan Am Plaza in downtown Indianapolis includes a live show hosted by Burger Bash founder Curt Cavin and NBCSN broadcaster Kevin Lee, with appearances from the men and women who will be driving in the 101st running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by PennGrade Motor Oil. Doors open at 5 p.m., with the show beginning at 6 p.m.

This year’s Steak ‘n Shake Burger Bash looks to build off last year’s fun, where a majority of the 33 Indianapolis 500 drivers, including “Dancing With the Stars” runner-up James Hinchcliffe, appeared on stage. Harmon, who last year won the 15th and final “American Idol” season, will perform in Indianapolis for the first time.

The Burger Bash was created in 2008 with the goal of bringing the stars of the Verizon IndyCar Series closer to the fans during the 500 weekend, and it has become one of the best opportunities to see and hear from the drivers. Over the years, the event built around Steakburgers and milkshakes has raised more than $200,000 for local charities.

“This year’s Steak ‘n Shake Carb Night Burger Bash will be the biggest and best yet,” said Curt Cavin, INDYCAR’s Vice President of Communications. “This event provides an unparalleled IndyCar fan experience with great drivers, world-class entertainment and fantastic food – there is no better way to get ready for Indy 500 weekend. After traditional Carb Day activities conclude at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, we invite all fans to make their way downtown for this outstanding, free event.”

Indianapolis-based Steak ‘n Shake, home of the Original Steakburger, returns as the primary sponsor of the event. Attendees will be able to enjoy Steak ‘n Shake’s famous Steakburgers and fries, as well as hand-scooped milkshakes during the event.

“Steak ‘n Shake and IndyCar are both proud to call Indianapolis home, so we couldn’t think of a better event to be involved with during one of the most exciting weekends of the year in Indy,” said Jim Flaniken, Sr. Vice President, Marketing at Steak ‘n Shake.

Harmon will perform his hit single, “There’s A Girl,” as well as other fan favorites from his Big Machine Records’ album, set to debut later this year.

“I couldn’t be more excited about headlining the 10th annual Steak ‘n Shake Carb Night Burger Bash,” Harmon said. “It’s a thrill and an honor to perform at one of the premier events during the Indy 500 weekend. I’m looking forward to putting on a great show for IndyCar fans in May.”

Proceeds from the purchase of food and auction items will benefit Basic Needs, Simple Solutions, an Indianapolis-based nonprofit focused on providing people’s basic needs.

Flaniken added: “Burger Bash exemplifies the best of Indianapolis coming together for a good cause and a great time.”

IndyStar.com will stream the event on its website, and 1070 the Fan (107.5 FM, 1070 AM) will broadcast a live show from 7-9 p.m. For more information, visit Carb Night Burger Bash's Facebook or www.steaknshake.com.