Overview
Adding Color to Downtown Indy Since 1957!
The Lucas Oil 500 Festival Parade will kick off at 11:45 am, with the Parade stepping off at noon. This beloved race-weekend tradition will showcase spectacular floats, giant balloons, marching bands from across the nation, celebrities, local heroes, and the 33 INDYCAR drivers preparing for the Indy 500 the following day.
This year’s theme, Racing Through History, celebrates the 70th annual Lucas Oil 500 Festival Parade and honors the rich legacy, iconic moments, and community traditions that have defined the event for seven decades. From its earliest years to today, the Parade has remained a cherished part of race weekend, uniting generations of fans in downtown Indianapolis. The 2026 Parade will pay tribute to its storied past while embracing the excitement of today’s Indy 500 festivities. “The 70th running of the Lucas Oil 500 Festival Parade is a powerful reminder of the traditions that make May in Indianapolis so special,” said Dave Neff, President and CEO of the 500 Festival. “Through this year’s theme, ‘Racing Through History’, we’re celebrating 70 years of unforgettable memories while looking ahead to the future of this great tradition. We invite fans of all ages to join us downtown as we honor the past and create new memories together.”
"We are thrilled to help celebrate this milestone year for an event that means so much to Indianapolis and the racing fans who visit every year," said Katie Lucas, President of Lucas Oil. Being a part of the 70th anniversary celebration is incredibly special for our team and we are grateful to support this historic parade and all fans, families and partners who make this event possible."
Founded in 1957, the 500 Festival is a not-for-profit organization that produces more than 50 life-enriching events and programs while celebrating the spirit and legacy of the Indianapolis 500® and fostering a positive impact on the city of Indianapolis and state of Indiana. One of the largest festivals in the nation, each year more than half a million people attend an event or program produced by the 500 Festival. Since its founding, the 500 Festival has contributed more than $500 million in economic value to Indianapolis.
Upcoming Events at Downtown Indianapolis
