The evening concluded with a fireworks display over the Tidal Basin, as a crowd of spectators looked on.
White House communications director Steven Cheung stated that over 250,000 people attended the celebration, calling it a demonstration of patriotic spirit. However, multiple media outlets, including the Associated Press and The New York Times, reported smaller crowd estimates based on photographic evidence and on-the-ground accounts.
Critics on social media expressed skepticism about the turnout and raised concerns over the parade’s reported $25 to $45 million price tag. Some questioned the use of military personnel for ceremonial purposes, while others defended the event as a tribute to American service members.
The event also drew peaceful protests in cities such as Philadelphia, where demonstrators held marches highlighting concerns over policy issues and public spending. One group described their efforts as a contrast to what they called an overly extravagant celebration in the capital.
Trump has previously expressed interest in holding a military parade during his presidency, but logistical and financial obstacles prevented it during his first term. Saturday’s event marked one of the largest public displays of military personnel since the Gulf War in 1991.
Despite differing opinions on the event’s scale and message, the day served as a highly visible moment of both celebration and conversation—highlighting the intersection of patriotism, politics, and public perception.