About This Festival

Area & Surrounding Context

The Anderson Sertoma Mayor’s Cup Grand Prix transforms the heart of downtown Anderson into a racing spectacle, with the event taking place along the streets between E. 9th, E. 10th, Central, and Fletcher—a vibrant, walkable urban core. This is a classic Midwest city center, known for its historic buildings, welcoming local businesses, and easy access to amenities. The city of Anderson itself is situated in eastern Indiana, approximately 30 miles northeast of Indianapolis, making it easily accessible for both local and regional attendees. The downtown setting ensures that visitors have access to restaurants, shops, and parking, all within a short walk from the action.

Vibe of the Event

The Mayor’s Cup Grand Prix is a family-friendly, high-energy community gathering. The atmosphere buzzes with the excitement of racing mixed with small-town hospitality. Spectators line the downtown streets in bleachers, cheering for both amateur and pro drivers as go-karts zip by. The presence of food vendors adds a festival-like feel, and the open, free admission encourages a diverse crowd—from racing enthusiasts to families with children. The event is accessible for attendees with disabilities, reinforcing its inclusive spirit.

Activities & Event Schedule

Racing

  • Kart Racing: The core of the event features multiple races across various age groups and skill levels, from youth (ages 5 and up) to seasoned adult drivers, both amateur and professional.
  • Pit Passes: For those wanting a closer look at the action, pit passes are available for direct access to the racing teams and preparation area.

Fan Experiences

  • Meet & Greet: On Sunday morning (10–11 am), fans can meet the drivers, get autographs, and take photos.
  • Spectator Areas: Bleachers provide comfortable seating along the course, and concessions are available throughout the event.

Food & Refreshments

  • Concessions: Multiple food vendors are on-site, offering a range of options for snacks and meals.

Schedule
While detailed, minute-by-minute schedules are not public in the available sources, the overall event flow is as follows:

  • Saturday: Racing action runs from 9 am to 5 pm.
  • Sunday: Racing resumes from noon to 5 pm, with a special driver meet-and-greet from 10 to 11 am before the races begin.

All activities take place along the downtown streets between E. 9th, E. 10th, Central, and Fletcher.

History & Founding

The Anderson Sertoma Mayor’s Cup Grand Prix celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2025, marking three decades as a premier go-kart racing event in Indiana. Organized by the local Sertoma Club—a service organization dedicated to community support—the Grand Prix was founded as both a fundraiser and a community celebration. Over the years, it has grown from a local curiosity into a regional attraction, drawing racers and fans from across the Midwest. The event’s longevity is attributed to strong community engagement, dedicated volunteers, and sponsorship from local businesses, all contributing to its reputation as Anderson’s signature motorsport event.