One of Indiana’s big Memorial Day weekend events is the Indianapolis 500. Everyone from young to old enjoys the race. You can enjoy the race here or there. Being at the racetrack is not for everyone. Some people like having a family by their side and having a cookout while watching the race on TV.
Indianapolis 500 history.
“Back Home Again in Indiana.’’
A pre-race tradition (since 1946) is the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” In 1972, Jim Nabors (aka “Gomer Pyle”) was a guest of track owner Tony Hulman, who, just moments before the opening ceremonies—asked Nabors to sing. Nabors had no rehearsal and wrote the lyrics by hand. He performed the song 45 times over 42 years, his final appearance coming in 2014. Nabors died in November 2017 at age 87.
How to watch the race
On Sunday, May 25th, on NBC. Coverage starts at 11 A.M. EST. The race starts at 12:45 P.M. EST. To live stream: Fox Sports, or the Fox Sports app, has the live online stream of the 2025 Indianapolis 500.
Soup Can races
To honor the Indy 500, have your own race. All you need is a can. Share this PDF with your family and friends. So, you can have your race on race day at your cookout or home. All you need to know is in the PDF.
Family Activities 