500 Festival Kids’ Day & Rookie Run | Fueling Excitement for the Month of May in Indy

There is so much excitement during the month of May in Indy surrounding the Indianapolis 500 and Indy 500 events, including the 500 Festival Kids’ Day. Some very popular events for families take place with the theme of the Indy 500, be sure to attend the 500 Festival SalesForce and JP Morgan Chase Kids’ Day, the Rookie Run, and the big 500 Festival Parade. Don’t miss this year’s HUGE Kids’ Day event on Saturday, May 11, 2024, from 11 am -3 pm.

In our house, it’s unforgivable to miss the 500 Festival Kids’ Day. For one day, Monument Circle is turned into the biggest outdoor children’s festival! There are so many fun activities to do, people to see, and things to do. The entire circle and surrounding streets are blocked from traffic and kid-centric activities are set up.

During the event, children can participate in a wide range of activities, including games, interactive exhibits, and other fun and educational experiences. There are also special appearances by drivers and other racing personalities and favorite Indianapolis area mascots and celebrities.

Free Kids’ Day on Monument Circle

Free activities for kids at the 500 Festival Kids’ Day may include mini car racing, an obstacle course, circus act workshops, performances, and entertainment, race-themed crafts including princess sashes, pop can race cars, games, face painting, clowns, and appearances by celebrity mascots. There will be food available for purchase.

The 500 Festival Kids’ Day is designed to offer children a fun and interactive way to learn more about the Indianapolis 500 race and the sport of racing in general.

Saturday, May 11, 2024
11 am – 3 pm
Monument Circle
1 Monument Cir, Indianapolis

500 Festival Kids’ Day Activities

Local businesses and organizations provide free activities for everyone. Spin the wheel and win something, chat with experts, play yard games, run an obstacle course, shoot some basketball hoops, and bounce in an inflatable. You’ll hear live music, meet with your favorite mascots, create crafts, get your face painted, and get glitter tattoos.

There are dance troupes and singing groups, real race cars, fun cars you can race, remote control cars, and fantastic photo opportunities. In previous years there have been amazing balloon sculptures, a giant Ferris wheel, rock climbing walls, and other incredible fun things to do. And it’s all free!

500 Festival Rookie Run

You won’t want to skip one of the best events at this all-day festival, the 500 Festival Rookie Run! It’s a real race just for kids. Age-appropriate courses are set up for children ages 3-10 years old. Each runner will get a bib and a medal for finishing. It’s just like a miniature mini-marathon for kids.

The Rookie Run is $10 per child if you register in advance and includes a special t-shirt. Or, register on-site for $6 and if shirts are still available on the day of the run, they can be purchased for $6.

REGISTER NOW

The 500 Festival Kids’ Day is a fun-filled day for families and racing fans alike, and a great way to celebrate the excitement of the Indianapolis 500 race. See you there!