Tuesday, November 27, 2007
The 500 Festival has been designated one of the Top Internationally Known Events by the American Bus Association (ABA).
Each year, an ABA tourism industry committee of motorcoach and tour operators reviews hundreds of celebrations, festivals, fairs and commemorative events and recognizes a select few as the Top Internationally Known Events. Along with the 500 Festival, this year's list also includes the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, Pasadena Tournament of Roses, Kentucky Derby Festival, Mardi Gras and the Montreal International Jazz Festival.
What began as a way for motorcoach operators to incorporate new product into their itineraries has grown to one of the most sought-after lists by travel professionals, motorcoach operators and the general public. The ABA also selects a Top 100 Events in North America list each year.
"The attractiveness of the 500 Festivalas a don't-miss entertainment value is only part of why its selection this year is such a distinction for Indianapolis," said Peter J. Pantuso, ABA president and CEO. "The real news here is that the500 Festival has been recognized as a potential magnet for tourism dollars, at a time when re-energizing tourism is so important to our spirit and our economy. The honor gives Indianapolisan important boost in visibility among professional tour planners."
ABA's 2008 selection committee selected the 500 Festivalfrom among hundreds of events nominated by tourism offices and convention and visitors bureaus. Judges considered the event's broad appeal, its accessibility to motorcoaches and skill at handling large groups, and a variety of other relevant criteria.
The Top Internationally Known Events and Top 100 Events in North America lists are available online at www.buses.org.
The mission of the 500 Festival is to produce events and programs that celebrate the success of the Indianapolis 500 Mile Race and enhance the quality of life for the citizens of Indiana and their guests. These events and programs, produced largely by volunteers, enhance the image of our city and state by showcasing our cultural, educational, and social benefits to the world.
The 500 Festival, a not-for-profit volunteer organization, was created in 1957 to organize civic events celebrating the greatest race in the world. Over the past 50 years, the 500 Festival has grown to become one of the largest festivals in the nation.
Last year, nearly 450,000 Hoosiers and visitors participated in festival activities throughout the month of May. Whether they were athletes running the Mini, fourth grade students participating in the Education Program, families enjoying the state's largest festival for kids or spectators being dazzled by one of the nation's premier parades, they were there, celebrating the legacy.
2008 IMS tickets: Tickets for all three world-class events in 2008 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway – the 92nd Indianapolis 500, 15th Allstate 400 at the Brickyard and inaugural Red Bull Indianapolis GP – are on sale.
Fans have three easy methods to buy tickets: Online at www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com at any time; on the phone by calling (800) 822-INDY outside the Indianapolis area or (317) 492-6700 locally between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday; or visiting the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Ticket Office on the first floor of the IMS Administration Building at 4790 W. 16th St. in Indianapolis from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
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