Exclusive: Flo Rida, FIFA and a giant Ferris wheel are coming to the National Mall
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Crews build out Freedom 250's Great American State Fair on the National Mall. Photo: Andrew Harnik/Getty Images
The National Mall is turning into a giant festival ground next month, with a FIFA World Cup Fan Zone and a World's Fair-inspired playground packed into America's 250th birthday — with August's IndyCar race on its heels.
Why it matters: Downtown D.C. may be in for one of the biggest tourism summers in recent history, with overlapping World Cup, IndyCar and America 250th celebrations expected to draw huge crowds for weeks.
State of play: Axios broke the latest news on Tuesday that FIFA and Freedom 250 organizers are launching a World Cup Fan Zone on the Mall for the tournament (June 11-July 19).
- Freedom 250 is the administration's task force behind many America 250th events, including President Trump's UFC fight at the White House (June 14).
- Organizers say the fan zone — designed for all ages — will include a mix of live match screenings, interactive exhibits, food, live music, cultural programming and youth activities.
The intrigue: "The world's game" will overlap with an Americana-themed festival channeling the World's Fair, showcasing all U.S. states and territories.
- Organizers exclusively shared with Axios the first wave of performers for the Great American State Fair (June 25-July 10).
Driving the news: Marquee names confirmed for the fair — slated for Thursday to Saturday evening performances — include:
- Martina McBride (June 25)
- "I love the 90s" featuring Vanilla Ice, C+C Music Factory and more (June 26)
- The Commodores (June 27)
- Flo Rida (July 2)
- Bret Michaels (July 3)
Zoom in: Organizers say visitors can expect:
- A 110-foot Ferris wheel overlooking the Mall
- Food, music and cultural activations by state and territory (hello, lobster rolls and — we hope — fried Oreos)
- Family programs and military concerts
- "Robotics and autonomous vehicle demos"
- Featured daily themes like "Future of America" or "MAHA Monday"
Between the lines: D.C.'s looming logistical questions: Where will everyone park — and perhaps more importantly, find a bathroom?
- City officials say details on road closures, parking restrictions and crowd management plans are still to come.
- D.C. police tell Axios traffic guidance will be released "closer to the event," while National Park Service officials said federal, state and local agencies are coordinating to ensure a "safe and enjoyable experience" for visitors. Translation: Stay tuned.
What's next: Organizers say additional performers, speakers, pavilion details and activations will be announced in the coming weeks.