The nation’s capital on Saturday was overtaken by the sight of tanks rolling down the street and Army helicopters buzzing in the sky for a military parade to mark the 250th anniversary of the U.S.

Washington, D.C. will host a spectacular military parade marking the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary. While thousands of soldiers and military vehicles will showcase their strength, political tensions and planned protests cast a shadow over the celebratory event.

The parade marks the 250th anniversary of when the Continental Congress voted to create the Continental Army. It also happens to coincide with President Donald Trump's birthday.

Saturday's military parade in Washington, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Army, is drawing mixed reactions from visitors. (Scripps News)

The official focus of the parade was the commemoration of the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary. But critics say the president is using the military show of force to push a political agenda.

Many GOP officials appear to have no idea what to say about the president's military parade — and some don't want to attend the festivities, either.

Saturday's military parade in Washington, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Army, could cost as much as $45 million.

The last time the United States held a national military parade was in June 1991, timed to welcome returning veterans of the 100-day Persian Gulf War.