Lucas Oil 500 Festival Parade

The 500 Festival Parade, one of the original 500 Festival events, ranks among the nation’s most prominent parades, receiving national recognition amongst the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Over 200,000 spectators will line the streets of downtown Indianapolis to witness the extravagant floats, enormous helium balloons, renowned figures, esteemed guests, top-notch bands, and all 33 Indy 500 drivers in action.

Mark your calendars for the 2026 500 Festival Parade, set to take place on Saturday, May 29, in downtown Indianapolis. Festivities kick off at 11:45 am, and the parade begins at noon.

The 500 Festival Parade is broadcast to the Indianapolis market on WTHR, Channel 13, and live-streamed on WTHR’s TV Streaming App.