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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowAs Indy 500 officials motor ahead with plans to stage the race on Aug. 23, the organizers of many of the accompanying events considered part of the 500 Festival—including the IPL 500 Festival Parade—have solidified new dates as well.
The coronavirus pandemic forced IndyCar and Indianapolis Motor Speedway officials to rescheduled the May race—a move unprecedented in the event’s 100-plus-year history. Organizers with the 500 Festival added the caveat that a lot can change between now and August.
“We will continue to follow the guidance and direction of health officials to ensure the appropriate environment for our participants, volunteers and staff,” said Bob Bryant, CEO of the 500 Festival. “We’re also working on new ways for everyone to experience our events and programs virtually and find new ways to relish in our cherished May traditions without compromising public health.”
The rescheduled events include:
• 500 Festival Kickoff: Friday, Aug. 7
• Salesforce & JPMorgan Chase 500 Festival Kids’ Day and Rookie Run: Saturday, Aug. 8
• 500 Festival Breakfast at the Brickyard: Saturday, Aug. 15
• 500 Festival Volunteer Appreciation Day: Saturday, Aug. 15
• 500 Festival Memorial Service: Friday, Aug. 21
• 500 Festival Off the Grid, presented: Friday, Aug. 21
• IPL 500 Festival Parade: Saturday, Aug. 22
The OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, originally set for May 2, will not take place as planned and has not been rescheduled. Individuals registered for a 2020 Indy Mini event have the option to participate in this year’s race virtually, roll over their registration to a future race, or “lend a hand” in support of the 500 Festival’s free programs for kids, according to the group.
Tickets already purchased for the 500 Festival’s 2020 events (Parade, Breakfast at the Brickyard, and Off the Grid) will be valid on the rescheduled dates. However, should these new dates conflict with ticket buyers’ schedules, the 500 Festival will offer other options.
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