It will happen in June.
The U.S. Army has officially announced plans for a large-scale military parade in June to commemorate both its 250th anniversary and the birthday of former President Donald Trump, which fall on the same day—June 14.
According to initial details reported by the Associated Press, the parade will involve around 6,600 troops, 150 military vehicles, and 50 helicopters, traveling a route from Arlington, Virginia, to the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Previously, there were no plans for such a grand display, but recent discussions prompted the addition of the event, which is expected to cost tens of millions of dollars.
Trump, who has long expressed interest in holding a military parade similar to the one he attended in France for Bastille Day in 2017, reportedly renewed conversations with the Pentagon just weeks ago to align such a spectacle with the Army’s anniversary festivities.
Army spokesperson Steve Warren confirmed that the birthday celebration will feature a full day of activities on the National Mall, including live demonstrations, musical performances, a fireworks show, and the newly added parade.
The announcement comes amid widespread federal budget cuts implemented by Trump’s administration, particularly under the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk. These reductions have resulted in significant job losses across multiple agencies, including the Defense Department’s civilian workforce.
White House officials told Fox News Digital that the parade would serve as an opening act for the broader celebration of America’s 250th year of independence, marking the beginning of a yearlong series of national events.
As of now, no exact cost for the parade has been disclosed. Army officials indicated that they aim to expand the event further with additional military displays, interactive exhibits, and community outreach.
Internal Army documents reviewed by the Associated Press reveal that participants will include service members from at least 11 divisions and corps across the country. The plan outlines contributions from a wide array of military units, such as Stryker vehicle companies, armored tank units, mechanized infantry battalions with Bradleys, Paladins, and artillery units. However, due to concerns over infrastructure damage, the heaviest tracked vehicles will not cross the bridge from Virginia and instead join the parade near the Lincoln Memorial.
Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser acknowledged in April that federal officials contacted the city about organizing the June 14 parade. She warned that heavy military equipment could damage city streets unless accompanied by significant funding for repairs. “If tanks are coming, they should bring money for the roads too,” she remarked.
Planning for the Army’s 250th birthday celebration has been underway for over a year. The event will include equipment exhibitions, live military demonstrations, a fitness challenge, and music. In the evening, the Golden Knights parachute team is scheduled to perform, followed by a concert and a fireworks display.
Additional participants in the parade may include restored historical vehicles and planes, marching bands, veterans groups, military schools, and reenactment organizations. Planning documents classify the parade as a potential National Special Security Event—a designation now under review by federal authorities following a request from the National Park Service.
Trump previously called for a military parade during his presidency after witnessing the elaborate Bastille Day procession in Paris. However, a proposed 2018 event was canceled amid escalating cost projections—reportedly nearing $92 million—and resistance from local officials who cited infrastructure concerns.
At the time, Trump claimed on social media that he was calling off the parade due to excessive costs and blamed local politicians for inflating the price.
