Freedom 250 Grand Prix disrupts DC traffic for weeks

Washington, D.C., is bracing for a weekend of major road closures, security restrictions, and heightened law enforcement presence as the Freedom 250 Grand Prix takes over some of Washington’s busiest streets.

The event, organized by the White House as part of the America 250 celebrations, is expected to draw roughly 140,000 spectators each day on Saturday, Aug. 22, and Sunday, Aug. 23. Race cars will reach speeds of more than 200 mph as they zoom through downtown Washington past key landmarks such as the Capitol Building and the Washington Monument. The main race is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Sunday and will air nationally on Fox. Free tickets for the event have sold out.