Washington, D.C. is preparing for a series of road closures and increased security measures ahead of the UFC Freedom 250 event scheduled for Sunday, June 14, at 8 p.m. The event coincides with President Donald Trump's 80th birthday and Flag Day, and a military flyover is planned as part of the festivities.
Security operations will begin on Thursday morning with no-parking restrictions around the White House complex and parts of downtown. Several roads, including sections of Constitution Avenue and key north-south corridors, will be closed starting Thursday night.
On Friday, additional closures will affect areas around the Lincoln Memorial, Memorial Bridge, and Independence Avenue, with restrictions expanding throughout downtown by Friday night. More closures will take effect on Saturday, impacting roads near the White House and major commuter routes.
The UFC will hold a ceremonial weigh-in on the Ellipse on Saturday evening. On Sunday, further traffic restrictions will be implemented as spectators arrive for the event. Federal and local law enforcement agencies are coordinating security, with the U.S. Secret Service deploying hundreds of officers and tactical teams.
A live watch party on the Ellipse will feature TSA-style security screening, and attendees will be limited to small bags. Most road closures and parking restrictions are expected to be lifted by Monday evening. A map released by D.C. officials indicates that the security perimeter will extend beyond the White House grounds, affecting much of downtown Washington throughout the weekend.