Gear up for the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon
Lace em' up and prepare your engines for the best month of the year. The Racing Capital of the World is mainly known for the Indy 500, but Indianapolis’ road racing scene is peaking through.
Recently named one of America’s Most Iconic Half Marathons, the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon is one you’ll want to keep an eye on.
The 2026 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon is Saturday, May 2
No matter your speed and skillset, your Indy Mini journey starts at the expo. The expo features interactive activities and exhibitors for all ages. The expo is free and open to the public and a great opportunity for everyone to enjoy the excitement of the mini marathon. All participants (mini marathon & 5K) are required to pick up race materials (bib/timing device, participant shirt, gear check bag) at the expo. A list of 2023 exhibitors can be found at indymini.com/expo.
In between your visit to the expo and race morning, my recommendation is to go to a local Italian restaurant and fuel up on carbohydrates. Ambrosia, Nesso, and Mama Carolla’s are some of my favorites.
On race day, be prepared to be a part of The Greatest Spectacle in Running. Join more than 20,000 participants and have a great time racing through the streets of Indianapolis. Make sure you utilize the 11 water stations and 5 Gatorade stations during your journey. Let the energy of the 50 course entertainers propel your legs forward. Save your excitement until around mile 6, where you’ll enter Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Be a part of history and be sure to kiss the bricks!
Once you finish the 13.1-mile journey, head over to the post-race party at Military Park where participants can relax and enjoy live music, food from local vendors, and drinks of your choice. Did I mention free massages? Be sure to make that a priority, you’ll be grateful you did the next morning.
Whether you’re a runner, walker, or a spectator, the 500 Festival makes sure that you can enjoy the deep-rooted tradition here in the Circle City.
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