500 Festival Running Events

500 Festival Running Events

May 2, 2026

Get ready for an extraordinary experience on May 2, 2026, as we invite you to join us for the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon and the Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K. Voted "America's Best Half Marathon," this event brings over 20,000 participants from around the world and promises an iconic adventure you won't want to miss! Whether you choose the Mini-Marathon or the 5K (...or both!), you'll experience an event like no other, with hundreds of the nicest volunteers you'll ever meet, nearly 50 entertainment groups along the course, and the opportunity to be part of the legendary history. Don't miss out! Register Now! 2026 is an iconic year, the 50th Running of the Mini-Marathon! Experience a unique 2.5-mile lap around the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway and get a chance to kiss the bricks!

• Flat and fast: Our course is designed for record-breaking moments, offering the perfect opportunity to achieve your personal best.
• Begin and end your journey in the heart of Indianapolis, surrounded by the city's vibrant atmosphere.
• Join participants from all 50 states and 20+ countries around the world.
• Recognized as "America's Best Half Marathon" by USA TODAY 10Best.

IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon

Flat and fast: This 3.1-mile course weaves through the streets of downtown Indianapolis and is designed for reaching fitness goals. Voted one of "America's Best 5K Races!" Home of the USATF 5KM Championships: Run the same course as some of America’s top athletes! Enjoy the energy of live entertainment and the best volunteers. Celebrate your achievement with friends and family at our exciting and free Post Race Party. Join us in 2026 for the 27th running of the Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K!

Location: Downtown Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN US - 46204

Indianapolis is known for its love of speed, sport, and big events, and the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon is no exception. For over 20 years, this iconic race has earned its place as one of the nation’s largest half marathons, even making Runner’s World’s list of America's Most Iconic Races and USAToday's 10Best Half Marathon. Every May, more than 20,000 participants take over the streets of Indy for The Greatest Spectacle in Running® taking place over Indy Mini Weekend. The race kicks off with a pace car leading each wave, and the flat, fast course is lined with thousands of friendly volunteers and over 50 entertainment acts. One of the best parts – a 2.5-mile lap around the world-famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indy 500. Many runners stop to kiss the Yard of Bricks, embracing a fun, meaningful race-day tradition. 2026 marks the 50th Running of the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, a race that’s seen everything from Olympians like Frank Shorter and Meb Keflezighi to families running and walking together in celebration. Be part of the tradition, and join us on May 2, 2026.