Live Indianapolis 500 fun report for the 109th running: Snake Pit, Coke Lot, red carpet
Good morning race fans! That 6 a.m. cannon has sounded and the fireworks have boomed, waking up the town of Speedway as people filter in to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. If you're feeling groggy this morning, the crisp temperatures should help you perk up and prepare to party.
Our IndyStar team — Domenica Bongiovanni, Bradley Hohulin, Alysa Guffey, Tony Cook and Alexandria Burris — have been here almost since the break of dawn. They're hitting the Coke Lot, Red Carpet, Snake Pit and fanning out among the grandstands so you won't have to miss a minute of the party action, whether you're somewhere else in the giant oval or hanging out at home.
If you're reading as you prep to head out to Speedway, here's what you need to know now:
If you've been to the race before, no doubt you know the drill. Rules are far looser than what you can bring on a plane but a tad more restrictive than what you can bring to a friend's house party.
Coolers that do not exceed a specified size that are filled with your own snacks, meals and beverages (including those of the alcoholic variety) are a-ok. Glass containers and weapons of any kind are not.
Feel free to bring cash but you're not going to have much use for it inside the Speedway. IMS is a cashless facility.
More details about what you can and can't bring can be found in this article or on the IMS website. And if you're thinking about bringing a trampoline, swimming pool or golf cart, let me save you a click. Those are not allowed.
After some more dismal forecasts earlier in the week, the forecast has cleared up significantly.
As of Saturday, the National Weather Service was predicting only the slightest chance of sprinkles with a mix of cloud and sun and somewhat cool temperatures.You can find the forecast for today and the next few days if you're also wondering about that Memorial Day cookout here.
The IndyStar staff has spent the past month covering all the intricacies of the Indy 500, both on and off the track.Catch up below with what you might have missed that's worth a read:The race itself:
Get to know the grid: For newbies and aficianados alike, here's a complete guide to the starting lineup of Indy 500
Meet the rookies: Race newcomers include one driver bumped from 2024 starting grid
Didn't make it out to the track? What channel is the 2025 Indy 500 on TV? Schedule, start time, how to watch, where to stream
The action off the track:
IMS Museum gets a makeover: See Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum's dramatic new look after $60.5 million revamp
While you're in the neighborhood: Learn how the town of Speedway embraces culture outside the Indy 500
Want to try something new? Here are new foods sold at the track for 2025
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