Frequently Asked Questions About America 250 Events in Washington, DC
As Washington, DC serves as the centerpiece of America's 250th anniversary celebrations, visitors have questions about event registration, admission and Freedom 250 programming.
Below are answers to some of the most common questions.
What are DC250 and Freedom 250?
DC250 encompasses Washington, DC’s events, attractions and experiences commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States. Freedom 250 is organizing several major anniversary events in the nation’s capital, including the Freedom 250 Grand Prix.
Visitors can find citywide anniversary information at 250.dc.gov and Freedom 250 event information at freedom250.org.
Are America 250 events free?
The America 250 events organized by Freedom 250 throughout Washington, DC are free to attend, though some attractions, performances and special experiences may require visitors to request free tickets or make reservations. For other America 250 events, check official event organizer(s) website(s) for admission and registration information.
What is the Freedom 250 Grand Prix?
The Freedom 250 Grand Prix is a free, two-day motorsports festival taking place Aug. 22–23, 2026. The event will feature the first NTT INDYCAR SERIES race on the streets of Washington, DC.
Drivers will compete on a 1.7-mile, seven-turn circuit around the National Mall, passing landmarks including the Washington Monument, U.S. Capitol, National Archives, National Gallery of Art and Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.
The event was established by executive order in January 2026 as part of the commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary.
What will happen during the Freedom 250 Grand Prix weekend?
On Saturday, Aug. 22, the International Race of Champions will present an exhibition featuring motorsports icons driving identical 1996–2006 IROC Pontiac Firebirds. The lineup includes NASCAR Cup champions Jeff Gordon, Kurt Busch, Bobby Labonte, Rusty Wallace and Bill Elliott, as well as Indianapolis 500 champions Tony Kanaan, Helio Castroneves and Dario Franchitti. A free driver autograph session is also planned.
On Sunday, Aug. 23, current NTT INDYCAR SERIES drivers will compete on the full street circuit. The race will be broadcast live nationally on FOX.
The weekend will also feature a fan activation zone on the National Mall between 12th and 7th streets, with large screens, concessions, live music and Main Stage entertainment.
Are DC250 and Freedom 250 events free?
Many anniversary events in Washington, DC are free, including general admission to designated public areas of the Freedom 250 Grand Prix. Some attractions, performances, reserved viewing areas and special experiences may require tickets or advance reservations.
Visitors should consult each event organizer’s official website for admission and registration information.
Are tickets still available for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix?
No. Tickets and advance registrations for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix are no longer available. This includes ticketed seating and limited inside-track access.
Is event registration the same as a ticket?
Not always. Organizers may use registration to estimate attendance and share event updates, while tickets may provide access to reserved seating, controlled areas or special experiences. Registration does not guarantee admission unless the organizer specifically states otherwise.
Will museums and attractions remain open during the Freedom 250 Grand Prix?
Attractions within the race perimeter will have adjusted hours or special access requirements on Aug. 22 and 23. General admission race tickets closed June 7, so please confirm entry requirements before planning a Saturday or Sunday museum visit.
A race ticket only grants access to one perimeter (either Stripes or Stars). All other Smithsonian museums not mentioned will keep regular hours with no extra requirements.
National Gallery of Art (Stripes zone)
Friday: Enter through event security
Saturday – Sunday: Race ticket required; East Building closed Sunday
National Air and Space Museum (Stripes zone)
Friday: Free timed-entry pass via QR code (released day-of only)
Saturday – Sunday: Race ticket + timed-entry pass required; enter via Gate 5
National Museum of the American Indian (Stripes zone)
Friday: No ticket needed
Saturday – Sunday: Race ticket required; enter via Gate 6
National Museum of Natural History (Stars zone)
Friday: No ticket needed
Saturday – Sunday: Race ticket required; enter via Gate A
Visitors should review the community impact map and confirm operating hours and admission requirements directly with each attraction.
Will there be road closures?
Some major events will require temporary road closures, restricted-access areas and changes to traffic patterns.
For the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, road closures will begin Aug. 1, with significant closures starting Aug. 14. Metro is the recommended way to reach the event. Visitors should allow additional travel time and check 250.dc.gov for current road closure and transportation information.
What security procedures should visitors expect?
Security procedures will vary by event. Visitors may encounter security screenings, controlled entry points and restrictions on certain items at major DC250 and Freedom 250 events.
For the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, officials have coordinated security with District, local and federal partners, with the FBI leading the interagency effort. Visitors should expect a significant security presence and TSA-style screening at event entrances.
Attendees should review the Grand Prix’s prohibited items and gate regulations before arriving. Washington, DC is a drone-free zone.
How can I become a vendor, exhibitor or participant?
Vendor, exhibitor and participation opportunities are managed by individual event organizers. Those interested in Freedom 250 opportunities should contact info@freedom250.org. For other DC250 events, contact the applicable organizer directly.
Who is organizing the Freedom 250 Grand Prix?
The event is being organized in coordination with INDYCAR, the U.S. Department of Transportation, the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Office of the Mayor of Washington, DC.
Monumental Sports & Entertainment, which owns the Washington Capitals, Washington Wizards and Washington Mystics, is leading marketing and hospitality. DC-based Harbinger is producing the fan experience.
How can visitors receive official DC250 and Freedom 250 updates?
Event schedules, access requirements and transportation plans may change. Visitors can:
Visit 250.dc.gov for citywide DC250 updates
Visit freedom250.org for Freedom 250 information
Visit freedom250gp.com for Grand Prix updates
Text DC250 to 888-777 for real-time alerts
Consult individual organizers for updates about other anniversary events