This Saturday, the heart of Washington, D.C., will come alive with a spectacular celebration commemorating the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army. Thousands of marching soldiers, dozens of helicopters, and hundreds of military vehicles, including 28 tanks, will participate in what is anticipated to be the largest parade in the nation’s capital since the end of the first Gulf War in 1991. Notably, this event coincides with President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday, making it a day of dual significance. The parade is part of an all-day extravaganza on the National Mall that will feature musical performances, parachutists, and a dazzling fireworks display.
Here’s a detailed schedule of events planned for Saturday:
8:15 a.m.: Wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia; open to the public and live-streamed. 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.: Fitness competition on the National Mall. 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.: Army Birthday Festival on the National Mall, featuring military demonstrations, equipment displays, live music, and food trucks. 6:30 p.m.: The parade begins, running along Constitution Avenue NW from 23rd Street near the Lincoln Memorial to 15th Street near the Washington Monument. Expect to see thousands of soldiers in both historic and modern uniforms, along with military vehicles including Abrams tanks, a flyover, and a parachute jump. 9:45 p.m.: Fireworks on the National Mall.The Pentagon has confirmed that approximately 150 ground vehicles, 6,600 soldiers, and 50 aircraft will participate in the parade. These will be organized to represent various significant eras in the Army's history, showcasing the evolution and strength of the U.S. military.
For those planning to attend, be aware that significant street closures will be in effect. Roads will be closed to vehicles from approximately 7th Street NW to the Potomac River and from E Street to Independence Avenue. This includes notable locations such as Lafayette Square, the White House, the Washington Monument, and West Potomac Park.
The 12th Street Expressway and the Constitution Avenue entrance to the 9th Street Expressway will also be affected. A broader area of downtown D.C. will limit access for drivers, with specific routes available for those requiring access. Notably, the Jefferson Memorial and Hains Point will be open to pedestrians, although surrounding roads will be closed.
The Smithsonian Metro station entrance on the Mall will be closed, but Metro services will generally operate as normal. However, buses that travel through the blocked-off areas will face detours and delays from 11 p.m. Thursday until 7 a.m. Monday. Detailed information regarding bus routes, including the impacted services, can be found on the public transportation websites.
Travelers should note that flights in and out of Reagan National Airport will be interrupted during the military flyovers from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Saturday. Although the airport will remain open, flights will experience significant delays, averaging around three hours.
Due to heightened security, all attendees must enter through designated checkpoints. The checkpoint for the Army Birthday Festival opens at 8 a.m. on the east side of the National Mall at 7th Street NW. For the parade, two checkpoints will open to the public at 2 p.m. Expect rigorous security measures, including 18.5 miles of steel fencing and 175 metal detectors.
Once inside the parade viewing area, spectators can stand along Constitution Avenue NW. Please note that this event is strictly standing room only, with no bleachers or seating available. Officials anticipate that the viewing area can accommodate “hundreds of thousands” of attendees, providing ample opportunity to witness the grand military display.
Several items are prohibited in both the festival and parade areas, including:
Umbrellas with metal tips (non-metal tipped umbrellas are allowed) Balloons Folding chairs Bags larger than 18 x 13 x 7 inches Signs larger than 20 inches x 3 feet x 1/4 inch Glass, thermal, or metal containersCity officials are preparing for “hundreds of thousands” of attendees, making crowd management a top priority. As for the weather, forecasts indicate the possibility of heavy showers and storms in the late afternoon and evening, with temperatures expected to reach the low 80s to near 90 degrees. Attendees are advised to stay hydrated and be prepared for humid conditions.
Due to the expected large crowds and noise levels, attendees are encouraged to leave pets and emotional support animals at home for their safety. Service animals are permitted, ensuring assistance for those in need.
Concerns have been raised regarding potential damage to D.C.’s roads from the military tanks. However, the Army has committed to covering any necessary repairs. Officials have assured that precautions are in place to minimize damage, including using rubber trackpads on tanks and metal plating in critical areas.
In conjunction with the celebration, more than 1,600 rallies are scheduled nationwide as part of the No Kings movement, advocating for a “nationwide day of defiance.” Notably, while there are No Kings events in Virginia and Maryland, none are planned within D.C. However, the local group Free DC is organizing a “DC Joy Day” at Anacostia Park from 3 to 8 p.m., featuring activities and free food for attendees.
For those planning to participate in this historic celebration, it’s essential to be aware of the schedule, security measures, and transportation adjustments to ensure a memorable experience honoring the U.S. Army.
