What to Wear to the Indy 500 | 10 Spirited Outfits for Kids

If you live in Indianapolis, then you know that the month of May brings out all of the fun times and amazing Indy 500 events. From food, fun, and fashion, Indy has racing on the brain. The greatest spectacle in racing, the Indianapolis 500, has a whole vibe of its own and when it comes to what to wear to the Indy 500, there are so many possibilities.

And if you’re taking kids to the Indy 500, we have some adorable outfit ideas for them!

When attending the Indy 500 on race day or during any of the other month of May festivities, it is important to dress appropriately for the weather and comfort. Long days, changing weather, and exposure to the elements can make wardrobe selection a challenge. This may leave you wondering what to wear to the Indy 500, especially if you are trying to dress your child.

A little girl drinks a giant glass bottle of milk, wearing black and white checked dress, demonstrating what to wear to the Indy 500.

What to Wear to the Indy 500 If You’re a Kid

Quinn is wearing a jumper from Lucy Lockett Designs. This is a handmade garment from Rebecca Hirschy in Decatur, Indiana. Kids and adults will want to wear comfortable clothing that allows them to move freely and doesn’t restrict their movement. Lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton or moisture-wicking materials are excellent choices for hot days.

Depending on the weather, this outfit could be great for the 500 Festival Parade, Qualifications at the track, or even race day at the Indianapolis 500.

What to Wear to the Indy 500: A girl stands holding a checkered flag and glass bottle of milk at the Winners Circle at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway at the Indianapolis 500.

Top your favorite pair of jeans, cutoff shorts, or skirt with this super comfy O-neck black and white checkered short-sleeve t-shirt. It’s 100% polyester and fun on and off the track! Since the race and most associated activities take place outdoors, it’s important to protect your child’s skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Have them wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with at least SPF 30.

This outfit would be great for any race fan attending the 500 Festival Kids Day and a cool day at the track.

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What to Wear to the Indy 500: A child is leaning on the Indy 500 pacecar at Indianapolis' Monument Circle.

Scout is wearing a pleated checkered skit with a Snake Pit T-shirt from the IMS Store. The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to dress your child in layers. This is the ultimate tip when it comes to figuring out what to wear to the Indy 500. That way, they can easily adjust to any changes in temperature. Include a pair of pants or leggings that can be removed if it warms up—layer on a long-sleeved shirt or a sweatshirt.

Scout’s outfit would be great for the 500 Festival Parade or a warm day at the track for any of the racing events.

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What to Wear to the Indy 500: A mom stands with her two children near the stands at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Katy (Mom) and James are wearing Indianapolis Motor Speedway Shop shirts. The blue Ladies Wing Rayon Scoop Tie T-Shirt has a front tie detail and on the back, the shirt has “Indianapolis Motor Speedway” printed in block baseball-style letters. As a mom, it can be a challenge navigating what to wear to the Indy 500 — you never know if you’ll be chasing kids around the infield. James is wearing an IndyCar logo t-shirt.

What to Wear to the Indy 500: A girl and a boy stand in front of the Pagoda at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. They're wearing racing themed clothing.

Lulu is wearing a red checkered LOVE t-shirt and a pleated skirt in a checkered print. Sibling sets are a lot of fun when you’re shopping for what to wear to the Indy 500.

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What to Wear to the Indy 500: A boy stands on the yard of bricks at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. He's wearing jeans and a long sleved shirt while waving a green flag.

James is wearing the IMS Electrify Long Sleeve T-Shirt. It’s perfect for those cool spring days when you want to show your support for the racing season AND be comfortable. For your child’s safety, it’s best to have them wear closed-toe shoes, like tennis shoes, that provide good support and traction. Avoid sandals or flip-flops, as they can be hazardous in crowded areas and contribute to injuries or sore feet after a long day with a lot of walking.

What to Wear to the Indy 500: A pre-teen stands on the wall at the yard of bricks at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and waves a green flag. She's wearing a black skirt and a black and white checkered crop top.

Lulu is wearing a sparkle skirt from Target and a long-sleeve-checkered crop top. For a fun and festive touch, dress your child in clothing that features the Indy 500 race or racing-themed graphics. Accessories or graphic clothing items such as a t-shirt, hat, or jacket can be paired with their favorite wardrobe pieces they already own.

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What to Wear to the Indy 500: a preschooler stands in front of the Indianapolis 500 pacecar wearing an Indianapolis Motor Speedway tank top and denim shorts.

Quinny is wearing her favorite denim shorts and an Indianapolis Motor Speedway tank from the IMS shop. Be sure to check the dress code and guidelines beforehand, as some areas may have specific dress requirements. For example, some areas may prohibit certain types of clothing, such as shorts or open-toed shoes.

This outfit would be great for any of the Indianapolis 500 or 500 Festival events, especially the Rookie Run at Kids’ Day.

Add these racing-themed destinations to your May plans!

Start gearing up for summer! Our 101 Days of Summer calendar is packed full of activities.

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