The 500 Festival, a nonprofit organization providing life-enriching events and programs that celebrate the spirit and legacy of the Indianapolis 500®, was selected as one of seven laureates at the 2018 Place Marketing Forum, an international conference about new trends and practices of place marketing around the world. The 500 Festival was the only honoree from the United States and the organization was honored for its large volunteer base, economic benefits, diversity of programs and events, civic engagement and ability to showcase the City of Indianapolis and State of Indiana nationally and internationally.