Zac Brown Band to Headline UFC Freedom 250 Fan Fest in D.C.

The country rock group will perform at the free event on The Ellipse, just south of the White House.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:41am

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An abstract close-up image of shimmering sequins and shattered glass, capturing the glitz and energy of the UFC Freedom 250 Fan Fest in Washington, D.C.The Zac Brown Band's high-energy performance will bring a touch of country music flair to the UFC Freedom 250 Fan Fest in Washington, D.C.Quantico Today

The UFC is bringing a star-studded lineup to Washington, D.C., for its upcoming UFC Freedom 250 event, and the Zac Brown Band will headline the free Fan Fest on June 13th. The event will feature live music, ceremonial weigh-ins, meet and greets, and a live watch party of the fights on the South Lawn of the White House.

Why it matters

This move is a strategic investment for the UFC to expand its audience and viewership, particularly on Paramount+. The combination of music, sports, and political intrigue makes this event a unique and intriguing prospect that could impact the UFC's future relationship with the White House and its long-term goals.

The details

The Fan Fest will offer a variety of activities, including live music, ceremonial weigh-ins, meet and greets, on-stage entertainment, and interactive experiences. It will also feature appearances from UFC athletes and other celebrities, providing a unique experience for attendees. The event is a result of a close relationship between UFC CEO Dana White and President Trump, and the White House event has faced some financial challenges, with TKO Group Holdings, the parent company of the UFC, expecting to lose $30 million on the event, even after offsetting costs through sponsorships.

  • The UFC Freedom 250 Fan Fest will take place on June 13, 2026.
  • The Zac Brown Band will headline the event.

The players

Zac Brown Band

A country rock group that has been making waves with their recent success, including an eight-night run at the Sphere in Las Vegas and the release of their album 'Love & Fear' in December.

Dana White

The CEO of the UFC, who has a close relationship with President Trump.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States, who has been involved in various initiatives with the UFC.

Mark Shapiro

The president and COO of TKO Group Holdings, the parent company of the UFC.

TKO Group Holdings

The parent company of the UFC, which expects to lose $30 million on the UFC Freedom 250 event, even after offsetting costs through sponsorships.

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What they’re saying

“This event is not about profit but rather a long-term investment in earned media and audience expansion. It will drive subscriber acquisition for Paramount+ and create a Super Bowl-like spectacle with earned media across the globe.”

— Mark Shapiro, President and COO, TKO Group Holdings

What’s next

The UFC Freedom 250 Fan Fest and the accompanying UFC Freedom 250 event will take place on June 13, 2026, in Washington, D.C.

The takeaway

The UFC's decision to headline the Fan Fest with the Zac Brown Band is a clever move, leveraging the band's popularity to attract a diverse audience and expand the promotion's reach, particularly on Paramount+. The combination of music, sports, and political intrigue makes this event a unique and intriguing prospect that could have long-term implications for the UFC's relationship with the White House and its strategic goals.