What to Pack for Carb Day: Tactive’s Ultimate Track-Side Checklist

Listen up, Indy locals: If you haven’t already, now’s a good time to request PTO for the Friday before Memorial Day weekend. It’s Carb Day – and you don’t want to miss it.

For the uninitiated, Carb Day is the Friday before the Indy 500 – which happens annually on Sunday of Memorial Day weekend. The name goes back to when race cars had carburetors and teams made final tweaks the Friday before the big race. These days? It’s less about the carbs (unless you count the beer) and more about a full-on party at the track.

Tactive has been celebrating at Carb Day since 2001, so you could say we know a thing or two about packing for a good time at the track. Whether it’s your first or fifteenth Carb Day, here’s everything you’ll want to throw in your cooler, backpack, or wagon before heading to the Speedway.

🧊 Stay Hydrated

Bring a cooler (max size: 18” x 15” x 15”) and stock it with plenty of bottled water. Pro tip: Freeze half of them overnight to keep everything else cold while guaranteeing an ice-cold drink when the afternoon heat kicks in.

🍻 Keep It Chill

No glass allowed, so bring those drinks in cans or boxed wine. Don’t forget your koozies to keep things cold and your hands dry. Bonus points if you slap your company logo on them and hand a few out. (Yes, we’re absolutely suggesting you make swag part of your pregame plan. It’s called multitasking, okay?)

🧴 Protect Your Skin

No one wants to be the person who looks like they’re still wearing a shirt after taking it off. Pack sunscreen and lip balm with SPF, and remember to reapply them throughout the day! Future-you will thank you.

🧠 Respect Your Ears

IndyCars are LOUD. A solid pair of earplugs will save your eardrums (and make it easier to enjoy the concert later). Pro tip: Branded earplugs are great giveaways that people actually use.

🍔 Carb Load

This is not the day for kale salads. Track snacks reign supreme – think hot dogs, turkey legs, and a tenderloin as big as your head. Don’t fight it. Just lean in.

👕 Rep Your Team

Bring your crew? Match your crew. Bright, bold custom tees make it easier to find your friends in the crowd and show off your team spirit.

Want to place an order in time for race weekend? Tactive’s your pit crew for tees, hats, and everything in between.

🎯 Game On

There’s always downtime between practice runs and concerts. Toss in some yard games like corn hole, ladder golf, beach balls, or even a football. They’re a great way to pass the time and make a few new friends in the infield.

Whether you’re coming for the cars, the music, or just the vibes – Carb Day delivers. So pack smart and party responsibly.

Want to come party with the Tactive team? Just look for the crew having the most fun in Turn 4. And hey, if you need help decking out your crew in custom tees, coolers, koozies, or beach balls? We know a place. 😉

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