Additional Coverage:
Washington, D.C. is gearing up for a grand celebration of the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary, marked by a military parade this Saturday. The event, which coincides with Flag Day and President Trump’s 79th birthday, is expected to draw approximately 200,000 spectators.
The parade route will stretch along Constitution Avenue from 23rd Street to 15th Street, showcasing a formidable display of military might. Over 6,600 soldiers, 150 vehicles, and 50 aircraft will participate, with soldiers donning uniforms representing every U.S. conflict since the Revolutionary War. Among the participants are 1,800 soldiers from the III Armored Corps at Fort Cavazos, Texas, whose vehicles have been transported to D.C. by train.
Following the parade, a parachute demonstration by the Army Golden Knights and a concert at the Ellipse will take place. The evening will culminate in a fireworks display at 9:45 p.m. A fitness competition and festival, featuring an NFL kids zone and military demonstrations, are also scheduled for Saturday.
The cost of the parade is estimated to be between $25 million and $45 million, with potential additional costs due to possible road damage from heavy vehicles like 60-ton tanks. While the Army has reinforced key turns with steel plates, concerns remain about the unprotected stretches of Constitution Avenue. Mayor Muriel Bowser has stated that the Army has committed to covering any repair costs.
This is not the first time President Trump has sought a military parade in the capital. He previously proposed one in 2017 after witnessing the Bastille Day parade in France, but the Pentagon dissuaded him at the time. A scaled-down celebration took place in 2019, featuring a presidential speech at the Lincoln Memorial and military flyovers.
This year’s parade will impact local travel, including a 90-minute suspension of flights at Reagan National Airport during the event. Several road closures are also expected. All parade and festival activities are free to the public.