Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping day at the 109th Indianapolis 500 (ad) presented by Gainbridge! Miller Lite Carb Day on Friday, May 23, 2025, is the ultimate kickoff to Indy 500 (ad) weekend at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (ad) (IMS). From high-speed NTT INDYCAR SERIES practice to the thrilling Oscar Mayer Pit Stop Challenge and a rocking concert featuring Bret Michaels and The All-American Rejects, this event has something for everyone. Whether you’re a motorsport enthusiast or just looking for a fun day in Indianapolis, this guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of Carb Day 2025.
What Is Miller Lite Carb Day?
Miller Lite Carb Day is one of the most exciting days leading up to the Indianapolis 500. It’s a fan-favorite event that combines the final NTT INDYCAR SERIES practice session, the high-stakes Oscar Mayer $150,000 Pit Stop Challenge, and a lively concert to get everyone in the racing spirit. Held at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Carb Day is the perfect way to experience the energy of Indy 500 weekend.
Miller Lite Carb Day 2025 Schedule
Here’s the full schedule for Friday, May 23, 2025 (all times local):
- 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.: Public gates open
- 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.: NTT INDYCAR SERIES Final Practice
- 2:00 p.m.: Wienie 500 and Concert Gates Open
- 2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.: Oscar Mayer $150,000 Pit Stop Challenge
- 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.: Miller Lite Carb Day Concert featuring Bret Michaels and The All-American Rejects
Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a great spot for the practice session and enjoy the infield viewing mounds for a unique perspective of the action!
Ticket Information for Carb Day 2025
Tickets for Miller Lite Carb Day are budget-friendly and packed with value:
- General Admission: $50
- Children 15 and Under: Free with a paying adult
- What You Get: Access to IMS infield viewing mounds and first-come, first-served grandstand seating for multiple vantage points of the racing action.
Where to Buy: Purchase tickets online at IMS.com or at the gate on event day.
Note: IMS operates as a cashless facility. Bring a debit/credit card or use tap-to-pay phone payments. Cash-to-Card machines are available at the IMS Museum, Pagoda Plaza, and near Turn 1 by concessions stand 7.
Parking at Miller Lite Carb Day
Parking options are plentiful, with both free and paid choices available:
Free Parking
- Locations: Lot 7 (North 40) and Lot 7 (North 40) for ADA. Enter through Gate 10 from 30th Street.
- Note: Free parking fills up quickly, so arrive early!
Paid Parking (First-Come, First-Served)
- $30: Lot 1B, Lot 2, Lot 3P, Lot 3G, Main Gate
- $85: Lot 6A
- $100-$125: Gate 1 Lot (tailgating available for $125)
- ADA Parking: $30 in Lot 3P and Lot 2; $100 in Gate 1 Lot
- Motorcycle Parking: $30 in the South Carousel Lot (pre-paid only at the IMS Ticket Office)
Plan Ahead: Pre-purchase parking passes where possible to secure your spot and avoid the rush.
Visit the IMS Museum
The IMS Museum is a must-visit for racing fans. Open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., it offers a deep dive into the history of the Indianapolis 500.
- Ticket Prices:
- General Admission: $25
- Seniors (55+): $23
- Military (Active/Former): $18
- How to Buy: Purchase online at IMS Museum Tickets.
- Note: Museum admission requires separate gate admission to Carb Day.
What to Expect at Carb Day 2025
NTT INDYCAR SERIES Final Practice
From 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., catch the drivers fine-tuning their cars for the Indy 500. This is your chance to see the teams in action before the big race on Sunday.
Oscar Mayer $150,000 Pit Stop Challenge
From 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., watch pit crews battle it out in this high-energy competition. Speed, precision, and teamwork are on full display as teams compete for a $150,000 prize.
Miller Lite Carb Day Concert
Cap off the day with live performances from Bret Michaels and The All-American Rejects from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.. Concert gates open at 2:00 p.m., so arrive early to grab a good spot.
Wienie 500
A fun, family-friendly event, the Wienie 500 brings a lighthearted vibe with dachshund races that are sure to entertain.
Tips for Attending Miller Lite Carb Day
- Arrive Early: Gates open at 8:00 a.m., and early arrival ensures better parking and viewing spots.
- Go Cashless: Bring a card or use tap-to-pay for all purchases, including tickets, concessions, and merchandise.
- Check Gate Access: Public gates include Gate 1, Gate 2, Gate 3, Gate 4, Gate 6S, Gate 6N, Gate 6B, Gate 7 Vehicle, Gate 7S, Gate 9, Gate 10, Gate 10A, Gate 11A, and Gate 12.
- Stay Hydrated: May in Indianapolis can be warm, so bring a reusable water bottle (check IMS bag policies).
- Follow IMS on Social Media: Stay updated on event details via IMS’s official X account or website.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Miller Lite Carb Day 2025
Miller Lite Carb Day is more than just a prelude to the Indy 500—it’s a full day of racing, entertainment, and community spirit. Whether you’re cheering on your favorite driver, rocking out to live music, or soaking in the history at the IMS Museum, there’s something for everyone. With affordable tickets and free entry for kids, it’s a fantastic way to kick off Memorial Day weekend in Indianapolis.
Plan Your Visit to Carb Day 2025
Don’t miss out on the excitement of Miller Lite Carb Day 2025! Grab your tickets now, plan your parking, and get ready for an unforgettable day at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. For more details or to purchase tickets, visit IMS.com.
Have questions about Carb Day or the Indy 500? Drop them in the comments below, and we’ll help you plan the perfect race weekend!