The Indianapolis 500, also known as the Indy 500, is a prestigious auto race held annually at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a 2.5-mile oval track. This event typically takes place on the Sunday before Memorial Day and attracts around 300,000 spectators, making it one of the largest single-day sporting events globally. The race features 200 laps, totaling 500 miles, and is celebrated with various pre-race traditions, including the singing of "Back Home Again in Indiana" and the iconic victory milk toast. The Indy 500 has a rich history, beginning with its inaugural race in 1911, won by Ray Harroun, who famously used a rear-view mirror, a concept that later became standard in automobiles. The event has evolved into a month-long celebration, including practice runs and qualifying rounds, and is marked by community festivities such as the 500 Festival, which features parades and concerts. Winning the race not only brings prestige but also the honor of drinking milk in victory lane, a quirky tradition that has become synonymous with the event.