Merriment, Mayhem Mark May at the Track
Hey Hoosiers . . . May Mayhem hits the bricks this weekend! It’s the 110th running of the largest single-day sporting event on the planet. The crushed stone and tar track of the early 1900s has evolved into a national historic landmark drawing more than a quarter-of-a-million spectators this and every Memorial Day weekend.
Who can say the Hoosier state is anything but a hip and happening place when it is touted as the racing capital of the world?! Commencing with Carb Day, this Friday kicks off three days of out-of-this-world fun and excitement around racing. From the field of 33 legends racing for glory to epic infield partying, this week marks the making of memories that will last a lifetime. On Sunday, the world’s largest sports seating facility with around 250,000 permanent seats will overflow with faithful fans from countries and cultures spanning the globe.
If three hours of spectacular spectating isn’t your wheelhouse, there are other ample opportunities for amusements to capture any fancy. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum houses a vast and fascinating collection of racing artifacts and automobiles. Or, simply plant yourself under a shade tree, out of the sweltering sun, and behold the age-old sport of people-watching at its best!
If racing doesn’t rev you up, just stray your way across the street to a world of race day culture and couture – the strip of Speedway township. Founded in 1926, it is a vibrant racing community featuring the Dallara IndyCar Factory and a bustling Main Street known for dining, shopping and local events like rockin’ right outside Gate #1 of the IMS.
Immediately following Carb Day festivities, Speedway’s Main Street draws more than 12,000 guests for a night of music, food, upscale retail, and good ol’ community spirit. This year is extra special as Speedway postures a pleasing patriotic theme for its Centennial celebration. Bring your friends, grab dinner and drinks, and enjoy an incredible night of entertainment with racing vibes all around! The revitalized Main Street area is home to highly rated, locally owned boutiques, bakeries and specialty stores.
You can still enjoy that high-energy, racing-inspired atmosphere with live music by The Flying Toasters and Big Rosco & The Hammers. It’s a virtual shoppers paradise, featuring artists, crafters and merchandise galore. There’s even the Kid Zone from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., so there’s something to appeal to all ages. From Santa’s Pitstop Christmas Shoppe (my personal favorite) to Two Chicks District Co.(a trendy home decor, furniture, and lifestyle boutique), you can also venture through Vintage Indy Sports (specialty hobby and sports memorabilia shop) or the Speedway Artist Collective, among many other unique and veritable venues.
Yes, one may detract from the track and take a trip down the Speedway strip, where there’s no counting carbs on Carb Day or any day this weekend. Whether it’s a penchant for pancakes or you’re aching for a steak, both the track and its tantamount town pave the way to pleasing any palate.
Whatever sparks your spirit – be it racing, rallying your family and friends, or simply relaxing in your happy place – may this Memorial Day weekend be a memorable one!
Can You Relate is a column from Noblesville High School grad Branna (McCarty) Shores. Branna believes that “HOME is where your story begins.” A Noblesville native and proud alum of NHS and Purdue, she is a professional speaker, advocate for mental health and work / family balance and retired social worker. Branna is the mother of two grown daughters, six precious grandchildren and wife of one brave husband! Her passions include singing, writing and sharing the lighter side of life through lessons learned, both personally and professionally. She can be contacted at branna18@gmail.com