We’re revving up for a month of 500 fun. We’ve done miles of them – corporate and for individuals – inside and under a tent. Plus we do annual Speedway parties for several 500 teams, both inside and outside the track.
Here are our red-hot tips for your race-themed party:
Outside? Make sure you have a plan for rain showers, sudden cooler temperatures, and lots of sun. A tent can be a good option. So are table umbrellas and extra sunscreen on hand for guests.
Make sure you have a big screen for viewing.
Have fun with décor. Black and white 500 flags are easy to come by and fun to have as backdrops. You can also add streamers, smaller track flags in any around food, and 500-themed napkins and paper plates.
Bright centerpieces elevate your party. Add floral arrangements and greenery.
Don’t forget trash cans. Make sure to have plenty, and easy to spot.
When it comes to food, have fun!
Variety keeps things interesting. Pay attention to multiple palates, options for kiddos, vegetarians, and those with sensitivities.
Casual food is great – but don’t be boring. Surprise guests with some non-traditional food. We love:
Mexican foods such as a taco bar with plenty of sides
Slider bar with pulled pork or chicken
500 box lunches like folks do at the track for a genuine Speedway feel
Traditional foods from fan-favorite drivers’ countries
Baked potato bars with lots of add-ons
An ice cream bar with tons of toppings
Use multiple tiers at serving tablesto keep food easy to see and quick to grab.
Havemore food than you think you’ll need and keep it safe to eat. Nothing should get stale, mushy, appear ‘picked over’, or served at the wrong temperature.
Replenish what’s on tables and keep things away from direct sun and out of the reach of insects.
Festive 500 ideas:
Set tables with track-inspired names. First Turn for Accelerated appetizers, Main Stretch for main courses, 3rd Turn for salads and finger foods, and 4th Turn for your dessert bar.
Use driver names for your dishes (Such as Foyt-fries, Rahal’s re-fried beans, Ganazzi’s chips)
Your rest room becomes the Pit Stop.
Buy mini-race cars and use them everywhere for fun!
Get creative with drink names with cooled beverages named after racing standards such “Checkered flag,” “Oil Change” or “Green Flag.”
Set up a track map and keep track of who is ahead, behind, pulled out, crashed, etc.
Everyone loves a party where the hosts have a blast right along with the guests! Do as much food and set up in advance as possible so your party can be stress-free.
Better yet, partner with us to create a delicious casual menu, while leaving the set up, tear-down and clean-up to us. Jacquie’s Gourmet Catering consistently gets the green flag for excellent food, perfect service, and being easy to work with.
