Indianapolis, January 26, 2026
Oscar Mayer’s Wienie 500 is set to return to Indianapolis Motor Speedway as part of the Carb Day festivities. With enhanced fan engagement and six iconic Wienermobiles racing for regional hot dog glory, this whimsical event aims to unite the community while introducing an exciting opportunity for fans to vote for a new hot dog. The event showcases the vibrant spirit of Indianapolis and promises a celebration filled with unique traditions and community involvement.
Indianapolis, Indiana – Oscar Mayer’s Wienie 500 Returns with a Sizzling New Twist
A Festive Race to Kick Off Summer in the Circle City
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – Oscar Mayer’s Wienie 500 is gearing up for an exciting return to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on May 22, 2026, as part of the annual Carb Day festivities leading into the highly anticipated 110th Indianapolis 500. After a successful inaugural event last year, which attracted thousands, local organizers are enhancing the experience and showcasing the vibrant community spirit of Indianapolis.
This whimsical race not only celebrates the playful competition of regional hot dogs but also illustrates how innovative thinking and community involvement can create memorable events. The Wienie 500 demonstrates that effective coordination can flourish with a focus on civic engagement and minimal bureaucracy, resulting in a joyous occasion that unites spectators and participants alike.
Event Details
The Wienie 500 promises to be a colorful display of Oscar Mayer’s six iconic Wienermobiles, each representing a distinct regional hot dog: the Slaw Dog from the Southeast, Chi Dog from the Midwest, New York Dog from the East, Chili Dog from the South, and Seattle Dog from the Northwest. Following a less-than-stellar performance last year, the Sonoran Dog from the Southwest has been retired, giving fans a chance to vote for a new hot dog to join the lineup through the ‘Pick Your Dog’ bracket on Instagram.
Engaging the Community
This year’s race will feature enhanced fan engagement, including a live nationwide broadcast that captures all the electrifying moments of this unique spectacle. Attendees can look forward to custom Wienermobile decals, the playful Hotdogger racing suits, and the iconic “Wiener Song” anthem, culminating in a celebratory trophy presentation at the “wieners circle” podium, complete with a mustard spray and the coveted Borg-Wiener trophy.
Background of the Wienie 500
The inaugural Wienie 500 held in 2025 was a tremendous success, drawing 85,000 fans to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and attracting an additional 8 million viewers through a nationwide livestream. This event has effectively become an unofficial kickoff for summer, coinciding with Memorial Day weekend, a time when Americans consume approximately 72 million hot dogs.
Get Involved
FAQ
When is the Wienie 500 scheduled to take place?
The Wienie 500 is scheduled for May 22, 2026, during the annual Carb Day festivities leading up to the 110th Indianapolis 500.
How can fans participate in selecting the sixth Wienermobile?
Fans can participate by voting in the ‘Pick Your Dog’ bracket on Instagram.
What traditions from the inaugural Wienie 500 will return this year?
This year’s event will feature custom Wienermobile decals, Hotdogger racing suits, the iconic “Wiener Song” anthem, and a trophy presentation at the “wieners circle” podium, complete with a mustard spray and Borg-Wiener trophy.
How many fans attended the inaugural Wienie 500 in 2025?
The inaugural Wienie 500 in 2025 drew 85,000 fans to the stands at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and attracted 8 million more via livestream.
Where can I find more information about the Wienie 500?
For more information on the second annual Wienie 500 and to participate in the ‘Pick Your Dog’ bracket, follow @Wienermobile on Instagram and @OscarMayer on TikTok.
Key Features of the Wienie 500
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Date | May 22, 2026 |
| Location | Indianapolis Motor Speedway |
| Participating Wienermobiles | Slaw Dog (Southeast), Chi Dog (Midwest), New York Dog (East), Chili Dog (South), Seattle Dog (Northwest), and one fan-selected regional hot dog |
| Fan Participation | ‘Pick Your Dog’ bracket on Instagram |
| Broadcast | Live nationwide broadcast capturing the event |
| Traditions | Custom Wienermobile decals, Hotdogger racing suits, “Wiener Song” anthem, trophy presentation at the “wieners circle” podium with mustard spray and Borg-Wiener trophy |
| Inaugural Event Attendance | 85,000 fans in person and 8 million via livestream |
| Memorial Day Weekend Hot Dog Consumption | 72 million hot dogs consumed |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
