The Grand Military Parade in Washington, D.C., is set to unfold on Saturday, June 14, 2025, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and coinciding with President Trump’s 79th birthday. Here’s everything you need to know:
The Military Parade Overview
This is the largest military parade in D.C. since the 1991 Gulf War celebration, featuring:
Around 6,600 soldiers
150 military vehicles, including M1A1 Abrams tanks and Stryker APCs
Over 50 aircraft flyovers, from modern helicopters to historic warplanes
Parachute jump by the Army “Golden Knights”
A concluding fireworks display by the Tidal Basin
The event, part of the U.S. Army’s semiquincentennial, aims to honor veterans and current service members. However, it has drawn criticism—from both parties—over its $25–45 million cost, possible infrastructure damage, and perceived political overtones.
What Time Is the Military Parade in DC?
Here’s the full itinerary for the day in Eastern Time (ET):
8:15 a.m. – Wreath-laying at Arlington National Cemetery
9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. – Fitness competitions and awards on the National Mall
11 a.m.–6 p.m. – Army Birthday Festival with demos and music
6:30–7:45 p.m. – 250th Anniversary Parade down Constitution Avenue
7:45–8 p.m. – Enlistment ceremony and evening concert
9:45 p.m. – Fireworks over the Tidal Basin
Parade Route & Attendance
The parade starts near the Lincoln Memorial at 23rd Street NW, continues along Constitution Avenue past the White House, and ends at 15th Street NW by the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
The route is free and open to the public, with view-sponsors able to RSVP for priority access.
Around 200,000 spectators are expected.
Extensive security measures, steel protections under tanks, and road closures are in place. Metro schedules and Reagan National Airport flights are affected.
Military Assets on Display
Personnel: 6,600+ soldiers from active-duty units, National Guard, ROTC cadets
Ground equipment: M1A1 Abrams tanks, Stryker APCs, Bradley IFVs, historic WWII Shermans
Air power: UH‑60 Black Hawk, CH‑47 Chinook, AH‑64 Apache helicopters, plus WWII-era aircraft
Ceremonial units: U.S. Army Band, Old Guard Fife & Drum, U.S. Army Parachute Team (“Golden Knights”)
Festivities & Demonstrations
In addition to military hardware, the festival on the National Mall includes:
Military demonstration zones
Live band performances and cultural displays
Fitness and skill challenges
A ceremonial swearing-in of 250 new service members
Cake-cutting event for the Army’s 250th celebration
Counterprotests & Political Tensions
The “No Kings” movement plans nationwide protests to oppose the parade, citing concerns about the politicization of the military. D.C. itself has no official protests, but around 1,800 protests are expected across the country. Authorities are preparing for heightened security and large crowds.
What’s The Costs & Public Opinion
Projected cost: $25–45 million, cited by the U.S. Army
Public sentiment: 60% of Americans consider the event a poor use of taxpayer dollars
Political debate:
Critics argue it resembles militaristic displays in authoritarian regimes
Supporters see it as a unifying celebration of U.S. military heritage
Some lawmakers and veterans voiced concern over the mix of politics and military display
Tanks rolling through city streets have raised worries over infrastructure damage
The Army has pledged to use protective measures and repair any wear caused
Viewing Options for Non-Attendees
Watchers can stream the event live on:
CBS News 24/7
Major broadcast networks (ABC, NBC, CNN, Fox News)
Official military and government social media channels
The parade will proceed rain or shine, though thunderstorms may delay certain segments like the fireworks.
Although grand in scale, this parade is deeply symbolic—through its size, timing, military presence, and political context. As it moves through the heart of the nation’s capital, the spectacle will likely overshadow daily life and spark national dialogue on the role of the military in public life.
If you’re heading into Washington, plan your routes accordingly. For those planning to tune in from home, set reminders for 6:30 p.m. ET.
