The Indy 500: When Does the Racing Extravaganza Actually Begin?
Ah, the Indy 500. A day of roaring engines, questionable infield fashion choices, and enough milk to fill a swimming pool (for the winner, that is). But before you dust off your finest racing fan attire (read: anything vaguely flame-retardant), you might be wondering: when exactly does this whole speeding spectacle start?
Fear not, fellow motorsports enthusiast! Here's your one-stop guide to getting your Indy 500 timing dialed in:
Tip: Read mindfully — avoid distractions.
 |
| What Time Does The Indianapolis 500 Start |
The Big Race: Green Flag Frenzy
Mark your calendars (or etch it on the back of your lucky racing cap) - the Indianapolis 500 traditionally sets the pace on Memorial Day Weekend. This year, that landed on Sunday, May 26th, 2024. Now, for the moment you've all been waiting for: the green flag waves and the race ignites at 12:45 PM Eastern Time (ET). That's right, folks, just in time for that afternoon barbeque to hit its peak...or maybe you prefer to skip the burgers and chips in favor of pure, unadulterated racing glory.
QuickTip: Pause before scrolling further.
But Wait, There's More! (Because Racing Doesn't Happen in a Vacuum)
While 12:45 PM ET is the official green flag time, the Indy 500 is a full day affair. Think of it as the appetizer, main course, and dessert of high-octane entertainment. Festivities typically kick off around noon ET with pre-race ceremonies, driver introductions, and enough pomp and circumstance to make a royal wedding blush.
Tip: Pause whenever something stands out.
So, how do you avoid showing up late and missing out on all the pre-race fun?
 |
Here's a tip: plan to tune in (or head to the track) early afternoon ET. That way, you can soak up the atmosphere and maybe even catch a glimpse of your favorite driver sporting some truly questionable facial hair (it's a tradition, don't knock it till you try it).
QuickTip: Repeat difficult lines until they’re clear.
Indy 500 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for the Chronologically Challenged
How to: Figure out what time 12:45 PM ET is in my neck of the woods?
- A quick web search for "time difference calculator" should do the trick!
How to: Watch the Indy 500 if I'm not near a TV?
- Many streaming services offer live broadcasts of the race. Check your provider's listings!
How to: Know if I'm accidentally attending a milk chugging competition instead of a car race?
- If the participants are wielding cartons instead of steering wheels, that's a good sign it's not the Indy 500.
How to: Explain to my boss why I need a "mental health day" on Indy 500 race day?
- This one might be a stretch, but hey, a passionate plea about the importance of American motorsports tradition never hurt anyone (well, maybe your boss). Just be prepared with a backup plan.
How to: Avoid ending up covered in milk after the race?
- Stand well back from the winner's circle (unless, of course, you're into that kind of thing).
 |
