Indianapolis, Indiana, January 26, 2026
Oscar Mayer is reviving its quirky Wienie 500 race as part of the Carb Day festivities ahead of the Indianapolis 500. Fans can look forward to exciting races featuring the iconic Wienermobiles and opportunities to participate by voting for a special entry. With last year’s event attracting over 85,000 fans and significant live stream viewership, this year’s edition promises even more fun and community engagement.
Oscar Mayer’s Wienie 500 Returns to Indy 500 Festivities
Get ready for a fun-filled race as Oscar Mayer brings back its iconic Wienie 500 to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2026!
Indianapolis, Indiana – The excitement is rumbling, and it’s not just from the engines at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Oscar Mayer’s whimsical Wienie 500 is set to return on Friday, May 22, 2026, as part of the traditional Carb Day festivities leading up to the 110th Indianapolis 500. This quirky and entertaining event has quickly become a fan favorite, showcasing the vibe of community spirit where entrepreneurial innovation meets distinctive American tradition.
The inaugural Wienie 500 in 2025 garnered an impressive audience, drawing 85,000 fans to the stands and attracting an astounding 8 million viewers nationwide via live stream. Events like these exemplify how entertainment can spark local economic growth, positively impacting businesses and tourism. As Indianapolis continues to celebrate its homegrown initiatives and lighter regulations, it paves the way for similar creative endeavors to flourish.
What to Expect at the Wienie 500
This year, Oscar Mayer’s Wienie 500 will feature all six of the company’s iconic Wienermobiles, each representing a unique regional hot dog. The lineup includes:
- Slaw Dog (Southeast)
- Chi Dog (Midwest)
- New York Dog (East)
- Chili Dog (South)
- Seattle Dog (Northwest)
Additionally, fans will have a say in the festivities by voting on social media to decide the sixth Wienermobile, with choices including the Sonoran Dog and other regional favorites. This interactive element enhances community engagement, allowing local residents and fans alike to feel a part of the festivities.
Bringing the Fun to the Fans
The Wienie 500 won’t just be a race; it promises an immersive experience with Wienermobiles adorned in custom decals and themed racing suits for the drivers. The race will culminate in the celebratory “wieners circle”, a playful nod to traditional victory celebrations reminiscent of the Indianapolis 500.
A Lighthearted Prelude to the Indianapolis 500
The Wienie 500 acts as a delightful prelude to the Indianapolis 500, pairing the exhilarating pace of racing with the beloved tradition of hot dogs. The event is not only a prime opportunity to showcase local culture but also serves to foster community involvement, drawing families and fans together in both celebration and competition.
Broadcasting to the Nation
As the event gains traction with national attention, audiences across the country will be able to join in on the fun as the race is broadcast live. This accessibility makes the Wienie 500 an exciting addition to the Carb Day festivities, helping to shine a spotlight on Indianapolis as a hub for innovation and community spirit.
Conclusion
The return of Oscar Mayer’s Wienie 500 promises to add a unique flair to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and offers an avenue for local businesses to engage with visitors. As the city continues to embrace creative ideas that foster economic growth, residents are encouraged to support local initiatives and celebrate Indianapolis’s vibrant community spirit. Mark your calendars for May 22, 2026, and get ready for an unforgettable experience leading up to the 110th Indianapolis 500!
FAQs
When is the Wienie 500 happening?
The Wienie 500 is set to return on Friday, May 22, 2026.
How many fans attended the inaugural Wienie 500?
The inaugural Wienie 500 in 2025 drew 85,000 fans to the stands.
How can I participate in choosing a Wienermobile?
Fans can participate by voting on social media to determine the sixth Wienermobile, with options including the Sonoran Dog and other regional varieties.
What are the featured Wienermobiles?
The event will feature six Wienermobiles, including the Slaw Dog, Chi Dog, New York Dog, Chili Dog, and Seattle Dog.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Date | May 22, 2026 |
| Audience | 85,000 fans expected, plus live stream availability |
| Participatory Voting | Vote for the sixth Wienermobile on social media |
| Featured Wienermobiles | Slaw Dog, Chi Dog, New York Dog, Chili Dog, Seattle Dog |
| Victory Celebration | Winning Wienermobile enters the “wieners circle” |
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Oscar Mayer’s Wienie 500 Returns with a New Twist
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.
