Welcome to May in Hendricks County, Indiana! Let's take a quick look at what's happening around the county this month, including live theater, live music, beautiful flowers, exploration of parks and trails and of course, since it's May in Indiana, motorsports.

As always, these are just a few of the May events in Hendricks County, so be sure to check out our Events Calendar for even more fun things to do.

The Phantom Tollbooth

The Phantom Tollbooth

The Hendricks Civic Theatre presents The Phantom Tollbooth live on stage at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield on May 8, 9 and 10The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster tells the story of Milo, a bored young boy who finds a magic tollbooth in his room.

Milo, along with his companions, Tock (a watchdog) and Humbug, embarks on a quest to rescue princesses. They face challenges in cities like Dictionopolis (ruled by King Azaz) and Digitopolis (ruled by the Mathemagician).

E.T. Bracket Series Races

Enjoy some drag racing at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park! (Credit: Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park on Facebook)

Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in Brownsburg will host its next segments of the VP Racing E.T. Bracket Series on May 16 and 17 and again on May 30 and 31. By far the most popular form of drag racing is a handicapped form of competition known as E.T. Bracket Racing.

Two vehicles with varying performance potentials can race on an even basis. The anticipated elapsed times for each vehicle are compared, with the slower car receiving a head start equal to the difference between the two. With this system, virtually any two vehicles can be paired in a competitive drag race.

Spring-Palooza Peony Festival

Peonies at Avon Gardens

If you're a fan of gardening, beautiful flowers or just fresh air in general, you'll want to attend the Spring-Palooza Peony Festival at Avon Gardens from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 17.  Admission is free.

Explore 5 acres of display gardens, shop local vendors and plants and fill your tummy at food and drink trucks while you're there. There are lots of photo opportunities, games and crafts, a silent auction to benefit Misty Eyes Animal Center and more. 

2026 Travel Guide

Free Travel Guide

Get your insider guide to all things Hendricks County by ordering a FREE Visitor Guide. Download or order a print copy today!

Carb Night Classic

Carb Night Classic at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park

The Carb Night Classic returns to Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park on May 22! Featuring multiple classes of open-wheel racing on the Friday before the Indianapolis 500, it will be a night to remember.

The 73rd Edition of the Hoosier Hundred will once again join the Carb Night Classic lineup. It features the USAC Silver Crown Series.

Summer Fun Run & Walk Series

The Summer Fun Run Series kicks off on May 27 at Hummel Park in Plainfield. (Photo courtesy of Parks Foundation of Hendricks County)

Join the Parks Foundation of Hendricks County for the 2026 Summer Fun Run & Walk Series. Its kickoff event is May 27 at Hummel Park in Plainfield.

Each week, participants will visit a different park or trail throughout Hendricks County. Participants can go throughout the week (Wednesday-Monday) when it's convenient for them or join the Parks Foundation of Hendricks County each Wednesday evening from 4:30-6:30 and run or walk with other park lovers. 

The Disco Circus

Step back into the 1970s with The Disco Circus at Hendricks Live!

Hey, you groovy cat, we're bringing disco back at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield when The Disco Circus performs on May 29 as part of the York Automotive Concert Series. The Disco Circus creates a next-level nostalgic experience by combining the energy and excitement of a 3-ring circus with 1970s music.

If you’re longing for the days of platform shoes, bell bottoms, sparkles galore and music that gets your booty movin’…then put on some polyester and your boogie shoes and let The Disco Circus take you directly to Funkytown!