More than two dozen tanks, 34 horses, over 50 helicopters, and thousands of troops — many dressed in historical military uniforms — will take part in a major celebration in Washington, D.C., next month marking the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary. Officials revealed new details about the event, which is expected to cost between $25 million and $45 million.
Scheduled for June 14 — which also happens to be President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday — the festivities will feature country singers Noah Hicks and Scotty Hasting. At a press conference, Army officials emphasized that this event is meant to honor the legacy of American soldiers and strengthen public connection to the military. Celebrations are also being held globally, but D.C. will host the main spectacle, including a massive festival on the National Mall, fireworks, and accommodations for thousands of troops in downtown buildings. Attendance is expected to reach 200,000.
Although Trump is slated to speak, Army officials stressed that his birthday is not part of the official recognition. The day will conclude with a mile-long parade down Constitution Avenue, featuring soldiers in uniforms from each U.S. conflict, supported by 28 Abrams tanks, 28 Bradleys, 28 Strykers, and other equipment. Live animals — 34 horses, two mules, and a dog — will also participate. Over 50 helicopters will perform a flyover.
The Golden Knights parachute team will land on the Ellipse near the White House and present the flag to Trump, who will then oversee the enlistment and reenlistment of 250 service members.
The overlap with Trump’s birthday has sparked criticism among some veterans and civilians, particularly as it coincides with controversial federal workforce cuts.
Though the Army has been planning this celebration for two years, the idea for a parade was added more recently through interagency discussions, not a presidential directive.
Trump has long expressed interest in large military parades but backed off plans in 2018 due to cost concerns and infrastructure damage. This time, roads will be protected with metal plates and tanks will use rubberized tracks to minimize damage. If any does occur, the Army will be responsible for repairs. Officials said they don’t yet know whether the District will be reimbursed for local expenses like trash collection and police overtime.
The event commemorates the creation of the Continental Army by the Continental Congress. Additional celebrations will occur at U.S. bases worldwide, including fun runs, fitness events, and family-friendly festivals. An Army astronaut will even join in from the International Space Station.
About 5,000 service members will be housed in unused federal buildings and provided MREs for breakfast and lunch, with a hot dinner and a daily stipend. Most troops will arrive in D.C. on June 11 and depart by June 15.
Tanks and heavy vehicles are already en route from Texas via train to Maryland, then will be transported to a staging area in West Potomac Park. Some lighter vehicles will cross into D.C. from the Pentagon.
A fitness competition will kick off events at 9:30 a.m. on the Mall, followed by public access to military displays and gear, including night vision goggles. Cannons will fire ceremonial salutes hourly, and a “Kids Zone” will offer activities like face painting and climbing walls. The parade will begin at 6 p.m. and end around 7:30 p.m., followed by fireworks at 9:45 p.m. Free tickets are available through America250’s portal.
Meanwhile, protest organizers are planning demonstrations in D.C. and nationwide, expressing opposition to Trump and what they call militarization. Groups plan to gather in Meridian Hill Park before marching toward the parade, while coordinated rallies under the banner “NO KINGS Nationwide Day of Defiance” are expected to take place in cities across the country.
