Washington, D.C. – June 14,— The U.S. Army is celebrating its 250th anniversary with a massive day-long event on the National Mall, headlined by a grand military parade in Washington, D.C., and capped off with fireworks. The celebration coincides with Flag Day and former President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday, though organizers emphasize the event is focused on honoring the Army’s historic legacy.
So, if you’re asking, “What time is the military parade in DC today?”, here’s what you need to know.
DC Military Parade Details – June 14, 2025
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Start Time | 6:30 p.m. ET |
| End Time | Around 7:45 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET |
| Parade Route | Constitution Avenue, from 23rd Street NW (Lincoln Memorial) to 15th Street NW (near White House & Washington Monument) |
| How to Watch | Live stream available on CBS News 24/7 and the U.S. Army livestream page |
Full Schedule: U.S. Army 250th Birthday Festival Events
Here’s a breakdown of key events throughout the day:
U.S. Army 250th Anniversary Parade & Festival Schedule – June 14, 2025
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 8:15 a.m. | Wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery |
| 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Army Fitness Competition & Awards on the National Mall |
| 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Army Birthday Festival on the National Mall (music, exhibits, family fun) |
| 11:00 a.m. | U.S. Army Band & Drill Team performances |
| 11:00 a.m. | Cooking demonstration by Chef Andre Rush |
| 12:30 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. | Noah Hicks concert on main stage |
| 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. | NFL “Skills & Drills” event |
| 1:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. | Medal of Honor recognition ceremony |
| 2:00 p.m. – 2:50 p.m. | Scotty Hasting concert on main stage |
| 2:45 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. | “Army Astronaut” special presentation |
| 4:15 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Official Army Birthday Ceremony & Cake Cutting (livestreamed) |
| 6:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. | Transition to military parade staging |
| 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Grand Military Parade along Constitution Avenue |
| 9:45 p.m. | Fireworks display on the National Mall |
The festival is free and open to the public. Entry is recommended at 7th Street NW, between the National Gallery of Art and the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum.
What to Expect at the Parade
The parade features:
- 6,600 soldiers
- Six M1A1 Abrams tanks
- Two WWII Sherman tanks
- Multiple flyovers, including:
- 8 CH-47 Chinook helicopters
- 16 UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters
- 4 WWII-era P-51 Mustang aircraft
Spectators can expect a high-energy, patriotic display — a visual tribute to the Army’s history, strength, and sacrifice.
Travel Advisory
Major road closures and traffic restrictions are in effect around Constitution Avenue, the National Mall, and the White House area. Public transportation and walking are strongly encouraged.
How to Watch Online
The full parade and highlights from the Army’s 250th birthday celebration will be livestreamed on:
- U.S. Army social media pages
- CBS News 24/7 live stream
- Army.mil/1775 (official Army event page)
The 250th Army Birthday celebration is not just a military event — it’s the official kickoff to America’s 250th birthday in 2026, setting the stage for a year of national pride and reflection. Whether you attend in person or watch online, today’s events mark a historic moment in U.S. history.