America turns 250, and DC is throwing the most American party imaginable.
Racing Through American History
On August 22–23, 2026, the Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, DC will make history as the first-ever NTT INDYCAR SERIES race on the National Mall — and it’s completely free. Formalized by an Executive Order signed by President Donald J. Trump, the Freedom 250 Grand Prix sends high-powered open-wheel cars screaming down a 1.7-mile, seven-turn street circuit along Pennsylvania Avenue, past the Washington Monument, the U.S. Capitol, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the National Gallery of Art, and the National Archives. Two-time INDYCAR champion and back-to-back Indianapolis 500 winner Josef Newgarden (featured image), who toured the circuit ahead of the announcement, didn’t hold back: “Racing through the heart of American history, with those amazing landmarks lining the course, is going to be incredibly powerful. I can’t wait to be back here to race and celebrate America’s birthday at the Freedom 250 Grand Prix.”
A Free, Unforgettable Weekend on the Mall
General admission is free and open to the public, with a fan activation zone stretching between 12th Street and 7th Street on the National Mall. Big screens, live music on the Main Stage, food and beverage options, and multiple standing and limited seating locations inside the circuit make this a full weekend experience for families, locals, and visitors alike. A limited number of free tickets to areas inside the track are available — fans are encouraged to register now at Freedom250GP.com before they’re gone. The race itself airs live on FOX on Sunday, August 23, with international broadcast reaching more than 200 countries!
DC Is Ready — Plan Your Trip Now
Mayor Muriel Bowser made the ask direct: “We want people to plan their trips to DC now. Come for the Freedom 250, and then stay to enjoy our monuments and museums, our beautiful parks, world-class restaurants and hotels, and all the culture and entertainment that make us the best city in the world.” Backed by Monumental Sports & Entertainment — owners of the Capitals, Wizards, and Mystics — and live events powerhouse Harbinger, the production behind this race weekend is world-class. Read the full track and circuit announcement here.
Register, Follow, and Show Up
This is a once-in-250-years event, and The Washington Lobbyist wants you front and center for it! Follow the race on Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube, and register for ticket updates and alerts at Freedom250GP.com. The Washington Lobbyist is your DC guide for events that define the city — bookmark us, share this story, and start planning your August now.
Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, DC. National Mall, Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004. General Admission: Free | Limited Track-Side Tickets: Free (registration required) www.Freedom250GP.com | @Freedom250GP
