Tens of thousands of San Diego County residents took to downtown streets Saturday for “No Kings” Day, a nationwide protest against the policies of President Donald Trump, coinciding with a military parade in the nation’s capital.
Two protest groups have merged in front of the county building at Waterfront Park, growing to an estimated 20,000 demonstrators. There is some traffic control along Harbor Drive while rolling road closures were put in place as the group moves, according to the San Diego Police Department.
“No issues or arrests, everyone is being peaceful, and no enforcement action has been taken, but we are prepared if any crime occurs,” Officer Anthony Carrasco said. “We are very pleased about how things are going so far.”
Saturday marks Trump’s 79th birthday and the 250th anniversary of the United States Army. The two events are culminating in the “Grand Military Parade” in Washington, D.C., featuring more than 6,700 soldiers and dozens of armored vehicles parading through the city.
Opponents of the parade – the nation’s first since 1991’s National Victory Celebration, which was timed to welcome returning veterans of the 100- day Persian Gulf War – say it is a vanity project of a nascent dictator.
Two major rallies for No Kings Day kicked off at 10 a.m. in downtown San Diego, one at Civic Center Plaza, 1200 Third Ave., the other at Waterfront Park, 1600 Pacific Highway. Both will conclude at Waterfront Park.
Beyond the two large rallies and marches downtown, other events will occur throughout the county.
Organizers encourage protesters to carry signs and make their voices heard, but not to engage in violent confrontation with supporters of the president and law enforcement.
Trained peace-keepers in yellow vests will be scattered throughout the protests. Participants can seek them out with concerns.
Faith leaders gathered Friday to encourage nonviolent protest.
Updated 1:35 p.m. June 14, 2025
