How to Plan an Indianapolis 500 Party

Gentlemen, start your engines! To this writer, May always brings fond memories of past Indianapolis 500 races, and the sounds of pre-race qualification runs. As race day approached, the excitement would mount and the conversations about the potential winner would be fast and furious. Raised just miles from the Indy 500 track; we felt a part of the festivity that surrounds the world's largest auto race. Started in 1911 and held almost continuously for the last eighty-five years, the Indianapolis 500 race showcases some of the best racing talent available.

Indy 500 Theme Party

Celebrating race day with a themed Indianapolis 500 party is great fun. Make it a simple, intimate affair with just close friends, or throw a grandiose party and invite everyone! The only limit is the amount of time and effort you want to invest. Sharing the planning with others is a good way to keep the party simple and easy. You want to enjoy the party too, so be careful not to overextend.

Invitations

Free printable invitations can be found online or made using electronic publishing software. For extra impact, why not include a personalized pit pass, press pass, VIP ticket, or other clever insert? For ideas and free printable, visit printables.kaboose.com/race-car.html.

Decorations

Simple black and white decorations with splashes of red, green and yellow work well. Use black and white crepe paper with bunches of silver or metallic Mylar balloons to create a race track atmosphere. Cluster or group balloons and anchor with weights - they will make great take-home items for guests.

Toy cars, miniature flags, traffic cones, street signs, and any other race related decorations can be found at discount stores, thrift shops, or yard sales. Keep your eyes open for bargains!

Cover tables with white paper and offer guests markers or crayons. Let them express their artistic side by drawing race cars, tracks, or even signing fake autographs of famous drivers.

Food Ideas

Food choices for Indy 500 parties should be similar concession items available during sports events. Hot dogs, French fries, roasted peanuts , popcorn, and hot, soft pretzels dunked in mustard will be tasty choices. Serve with fruit juices, water, and sodas.

For dessert, a race car cake is a must. For directions on an easy-to-make cake, visit www.wilton.com/idea/Race-Car-Cake or www.ehow.com/how_4841109_race-car-cake.html. Serve cake with red, green, and yellow jello or ice cream for a Victory Lane finish to a fabulous party.

Indy 500 Party Games

Relay races and mock races using toy or remote control cars are fun. There are many sites online that offer race themed word finds, searches, and scrambles, like the website found here: partysupplieshut.com/indianapolis-500/indianapolis-500-party-games.htm. Purchase some inexpensive trophies for prizes.

You should plan on using clever invitations, simple decoration and food choices, and lots of fun and games as the foundation for celebrating race day. These are all the necessary ingredients for an Indy 500 party to remember.