SPEEDWAY, Ind. (WRTV) -- Despite the rain and damp conditions, hundreds of people gathered on Friday evening for Rockin' on Main, keeping the annual tradition alive with music, food and family fun ahead of the Indianapolis 500.
Attendees under umbrellas and in ponchos spent the day exploring vendors, enjoying live entertainment, and splashing through puddles. For many, the event is more than just a festival, it’s a yearly reunion with friends and family tied to the excitement of race weekend in Indiana.
Jameison Turk enjoyed dinner with her family. “My mom, my dad, my brother, friends, and family; it’s a big thing for Indiana, so I’m happy,”
Businesses and artists also filled the strip with pop-up shops and displays.
The Speedway Artist Collective featured a variety of Indy 500-inspired artwork and handmade items ranging from bracelets and T-shirts to fine art pieces.
“We have everything from stickers to fine art," said Lisa Schmitz, founder of Speedway Artist Collective. “If you come in with your little ones, they’re going to find things that are appropriate for them, and you might find something to put on the wall in your home. We are here to represent not only Speedway but Indiana, and we have fans from all over the country and the world."
Some artists showcased creative upcycled pieces, including handbags made from old Indy 500 programs and lamps crafted from vintage Indy 500 beer cans.
Even with the rainy weather, attendees said the atmosphere remained upbeat throughout the event. Cooper Miles said, “Everybody seems to be having a good time, good food, so nothing to complain about."
