As millions of Americans protested at “No Kings” rallies across the country, onlookers gathered in Washington on the president’s birthday for a muted celebration.

Fox News Digital spoke to attendees of the D.C. military parade, some who had traveled hundreds of miles to participate, about why they had come to the nation’s capital for the event.

Army's 250th anniversary celebrated with a military parade in Washington, D.C., on Trump's birthday. 'No Kings' protests by opponents are planned across the country.

The parade, which was put on to celebrate the Army’s 250th anniversary and Trump’s 79th birthday, was reported to cost up to $45 million and drew thinner crowds than anticipated, as simultaneous “No Kings” protests took place in all 50 states.

Tiffany Trump, daughter of Donald Trump and Marla Maples, gave birth to Alexander Trump Boulos at 4:44 am May 15, 2025. She’s married to Michael Boulos.

At the beginning of the parade route, a sparse and quiet crowd greeted the U.S. troops dressed in uniforms from the Revolutionary War to modern day. A few protestors holding “NO KINGS” signs aloft mingled with patriotic revelers as a light drizzle began shortly after the start of the event.

"The Stringer" director "a little surprised" by post-premiere blowback

Rebekah Koffler was kicked off of Fox News' special military parade broadcast after she joined while seemingly inebriated on June 14. The clip later went viral online.