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.
As the calendar turns to May, neighborhoods around the state begin to proudly display their own festive, race-themed decor. It’s common to see black-and-white drapes, checkered pennants, race flags and even homemade decorations at Hoosier homes and businesses.
“Community is one of the many ways May is special,” INDYCAR and IMS President J. Douglas Boles said. “Throughout the city, our neighbors, partners and local organizations roll out the checkered carpet to welcome visitors and gather together to ensure the Indy 500 is truly ‘The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.’”
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.”
This year, 10 official Coca-Cola Indy 500 Porch Parties are scheduled throughout Indiana:
- Tire Rack Corporate Headquarters – 5:30-7:30 p.m. ET Wednesday, April 22
- 7101 Vorden Parkway, South Bend, Indiana
- Homefield at the Tracks – 6-8 p.m. ET Friday, April 24
- 415 E. Kirkwood Ave., Bloomington, Indiana
- Ale Emporium sponsored by Molson Coors – 5-7 p.m. ET Thursday, April 30
- 8617 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis, Indiana
- Harrison Center – 5-7 p.m. ET Friday, May 1
- 1505 N. Delaware St., Indianapolis, Indiana
- Flags for Good – 1-3 p.m. ET Saturday, May 2
- 646 Virginia Ave., Indianapolis, Indiana
- Group 1001/Gainbridge with Andretti Global – 4-6 p.m. ET Tuesday, May 5
- 10555 Group Way, Zionsville, Indiana
- The Amp at 16 Tech – 4-6 p.m. ET, Wednesday, May 6
- 1220 Waterway Blvd., Indianapolis, Indiana
- Westfield Farmer’s Market – 5-8 p.m. ET Wednesday, May 13
- 225 S. Union St., Westfield, Indiana
- Avon Public Library – 5:30-7:30 p.m. ET, Friday, May 15
- 498 N. Avon Ave., Avon, Indiana
- Fan Midway at IMS – During Gate Hours, Friday, May 8
- 4790 W. 16th St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46222
More than 2,000 Porch Party kits will be distributed at these celebrations on a first-come, first-serve basis. In addition, each Porch Party will feature unique offerings for local residents, including exclusive branded kits, educational sessions and themed literature. Each community Porch Party is open and free to the public to attend. (The final Porch Party in the IMS Fan Midway does require gate admission to IMS.)
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.
Countdown Signage installed throughout the city includes the renaming of downtown Indianapolis streets after Indianapolis 500 drivers and the takeover of the JW Marriott hotel façade and Indianapolis International Airport Civic Plaza.
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!
Once you’re dressed in your best, there are numerous ways to celebrate community.
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.
