America prepares to honor its oldest military branch with a historic spectacle in the nation’s capital, marking a quarter-millennium of service while showcasing the might of today’s fighting force.

At a Glance

• The U.S. Army will celebrate its 250th anniversary with a grand military parade in Washington D.C. on June 14, 2025
• President Donald Trump will participate in the event, which coincides with his 79th birthday
• The parade will feature over 6,700 soldiers, 28 Abrams tanks, historical reenactors, and a 50-aircraft flyover
• Officials expect at least 200,000 attendees for the celebration, which is budgeted between $25-45 million
• The event includes a daytime festival on the National Mall before the evening parade along Constitution Avenue

A Milestone Celebration of American Military Heritage

The United States Army will mark its quarter-millennium of service with an unprecedented display of military heritage and power in Washington D.C. this summer. Scheduled for June 14, 2025—exactly 250 years after the Continental Army’s establishment—the celebration will transform Constitution Avenue into a showcase of American military evolution from the Revolutionary War to the present day.

The parade route will stretch from 15th Street to 23rd Street NW, providing ample viewing opportunities for the expected 200,000 spectators who will witness this historic commemoration of America’s oldest military service.

The White House has designated the celebration as a “national security special event,” placing it in the same security category as events like the Super Bowl. Beyond the evening parade, the day-long celebration includes an Army Fitness Competition and Festival beginning at 8:00 AM on the National Mall, with general admission starting at 2:00 PM. The main parade will commence at 6:30 PM and conclude at 9:30 PM with officials recommending early arrival due to extensive security screening measures.

The "America 250" military parade + celebration, in honor of Army's 250th birthday, has been announced for June 14.

The parade will run from 15th + Constitution to 23rd and Constitution, and as @NBCNews has reported will feature tanks + 100s of other military vehicles/aircraft pic.twitter.com/IPLwtIFnVS

— Gary Grumbach (@GaryGrumbach) May 21, 2025

Impressive Military Display Planned

The parade will feature approximately 6,700 soldiers marching alongside an impressive array of military hardware. According to White House announcements, spectators will witness 28 M1A1 Abrams tanks, 28 Bradley Fighting vehicles, 28 Strykers, and 4 Paladin artillery systems rolling down Constitution Avenue. The celebration will also include more than 50 aircraft participating in flyovers, featuring both current military helicopters and historical aircraft, including a B-25 bomber that represents the Army’s aviation heritage.

Historical reenactors will represent soldiers from every major American conflict, showcasing the evolution of uniforms, equipment, and tactics throughout the Army’s long history. Military bands will perform patriotic music, adding to the celebratory atmosphere of this national milestone. The event promises to be both educational and inspiring, highlighting the Army’s contributions to American security and technological innovation throughout the nation’s history.

Presidential Participation and Funding

President Donald Trump will play a central role in the celebration, which coincidentally falls on his 79th birthday. The President is scheduled to deliver remarks highlighting the Army’s service, achievements, and legacy. The event will bring together veterans, active-duty troops, wounded warriors, Gold Star Families, and patriotic Americans from across the country. Free tickets for the parade and celebration are available through America250’s event registration portal.

“On June 14, 2025–the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday–the nation will honor its legacy with a grand military parade in Washington, D.C.”, said President Donald J. Trump.

The Army plans to spend between $25 million and $45 million on the celebration, a figure considerably lower than the $92 million estimate that led to the cancellation of a previously proposed military parade in 2018. This revised budget covers not only the parade itself but also the daytime festival and associated security costs. Military officials note that the event will serve multiple purposes, including honoring military heritage, boosting recruitment efforts, and fostering national unity around support for the armed forces.

A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice

The Continental Army was established on June 14, 1775, when the Second Continental Congress authorized the creation of America’s first national military force. Over the subsequent 250 years, the U.S. Army has defended America in conflicts ranging from the Revolutionary War to global anti-terrorism operations. Beyond its combat role, the Army has contributed to numerous technological innovations, including advancements in radar, computing, and the early development of what would become the internet.

White House officials have highlighted that under President Trump’s leadership, the Army has been strengthened with historic pay raises, rebuilt stockpiles, and investments in cutting-edge technology. The administration also reports that the Army is on track to meet its 2025 recruiting goals, with over 85% already achieved. This celebration offers an opportunity to showcase military service to potential recruits while honoring the millions of Americans who have served in the Army throughout its history.